Your digestive system works hard every day. It breaks down food, absorbs nutrients, and fights germs. But many people ignore their gut health until something goes wrong. Regular check-ups can catch problems early. At Gastrodoxs, we believe prevention is better than cure. In this post, Dr. Bharat Pothuri explains why screenings matter, which tests to get, and how early detection helps. We also share patient stories and Houston-specific tips. Let’s get started!
According to the National Institutes of Health, gut health is key to overall well-being. But symptoms like bloating or pain can be unclear. That’s why regular check-ups are important.
Knowing this can help you stay healthy.
Talk with your Houston doctor to decide what’s best for you.
Screening options: colonoscopy every 10 years, FIT test yearly, CT colonography every 5 years.
Dr. Pothuri says, “We use a mix of tests to get the full picture.”
Studies show colonoscopy lowers colon cancer risk by 70%.
Maria, 52: “I was nervous about my first colonoscopy, but the Gastrodoxs team helped me feel calm. They found and removed polyps. Now I feel great.”
James, 34: “Tests showed I had Crohn’s disease. Now I’m on medication and doing well.”
Ask your provider about comfort and costs.
| Test | How Often | Purpose | Prep Level | Start Age |
| Colonoscopy | Every 10 years | Find polyps/cancer | High | 45 |
| Fecal Immunochemical Test | Yearly | Hidden blood in stool | Low | 45 |
| Flexible Sigmoidoscopy | Every 5 years | Check lower colon | Medium | 45 |
| Upper Endoscopy (EGD) | As needed | Check reflux/ulcers | Medium | Varies |
| Capsule Endoscopy | As needed | View small intestine | Low | Varies |
Regular digestive screenings help protect your health. They prevent serious illness and give peace of mind. Houston offers excellent care and clear guidelines. Dr. Pothuri advises: “Screen early, screen smart.” Schedule your check-up today at Gastrodoxs or with your local GI specialist.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Most patients feel nothing during the test thanks to sedation. Afterwards, you may have mild bloating or gas.
Expect about 3–4 hours total: roughly 1 hour to prep, 30 minutes for the procedure, and 1–2 hours for recovery.
Yes. Serious complications occur in fewer than 1 in 1,000 cases. Modern sedation and equipment make it very low risk.
You’re at higher risk. We typically recommend starting screening 10 years before your relative’s age at diagnosis or by age 40—whichever comes first.
No. You’ll switch to a clear-liquid diet the day before and take a bowel prep to clean out your colon.
Most major insurers cover colonoscopy for screening. Our staff will verify your benefits and handle pre-authorizations.
If your colonoscopy is normal, repeat every 10 years. If polyps are found, your doctor will set a shorter interval based on the number and type of polyps.
Yes. Once your sedation wears off—usually by the next morning—you can resume normal activities.
Polyps are removed during the procedure and sent for biopsy. You’ll get results in 1–2 weeks and a follow-up plan if needed.
Call our Houston clinic or use our online appointment request form. We’ll set your date, walk you through prep, and answer any questions.
