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Abnormal Weight Loss

Abnormal weight loss-unintentional loss exceeding 5% of body weight over six to twelve months-can signal serious health issues. In Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs offers expert evaluation, personalized treatment plans and care to help patients restore health and vitality.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Memorial hermann
Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. 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.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Digestive disorders (celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcers)
  • Hormonal imbalances (hyperthyroidism, uncontrolled diabetes)
  • Chronic infections (HIV, tuberculosis)
  • Certain cancers (stomach, colon, pancreas)
  • Mental health issues (depression, anxiety, chronic stress)
  • Medications or treatments (chemotherapy, long-term drug side effects)
  • Poor appetite or malabsorption of nutrients

Signs and Symptoms

  • Unintentional loss of more than 5% of body weight over 6�12 months
  • Persistent fatigue or generalized weakness
  • Decreased appetite or feeling full after small meals
  • Abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or nausea
  • Signs of nutritional deficiencies (hair thinning, brittle nails)

Expert Treatment for Abnormal Weight Loss by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Step-by-Step Approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

Dr. Pothuri begins by discussing your symptoms, diet, stressors and medication use. He performs a focused abdominal exam to pinpoint tenderness in the epigastric region.

Laboratory Tests

Blood work helps rule out metabolic and inflammatory causes:

  • Complete blood count (CBC) for anemia or infection
  • Liver enzymes (AST/ALT), bilirubin to assess hepatobiliary function
  • Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) to detect pancreatitis
  • H. pylori antibody or stool antigen testing

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate gallbladder, bile ducts, liver and pancreas
  • CT scan of the abdomen if masses, severe inflammation or complicated anatomy are suspected

Endoscopy (Upper GI Endoscopy / EGD)

Under sedation, Dr. Pothuri inspects the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for ulcers, erosions, gastritis or malignancy-and can obtain biopsies or test for H. pylori in real time.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

  • 24-hour pH monitoring to quantify acid reflux
  • Esophageal manometry for motility disorders
  • Gastric emptying study to assess for gastroparesis
  • Capsule endoscopy or specialized imaging for small-bowel evaluation
Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for abnormal weight loss.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat small, high-calorie meals throughout the day
  • Incorporate nutrient-rich shakes or meal supplements
  • Work with our in-house dietitian on a personalized nutrition plan

2. Medications

  • Appetite stimulants when indicated
  • Treatment for digestive or hormonal disorders (e.g., antacids, thyroid therapy)
  • Antibiotics or anti-inflammatory agents for underlying infections

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopy to evaluate the upper gastrointestinal tract
  • Capsule endoscopy for detailed small-bowel assessment
  • Feeding tube placement in severe or refractory cases
399

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 399 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as abnormal weight loss?

Losing more than 5% of your body weight over 6-12 months without trying is considered abnormal weight loss.

What's the ICD-10 code for this?

The code is R63.4 -Abnormal weight loss.

When should I see a doctor?

If you notice unexplained weight loss, call us within a week to schedule a check-up with Dr. Bharat Pothuri.

Are the tests painful?

Most tests are simple and low-risk. Endoscopies are performed under sedation for your comfort.

Can diet fix the issue alone?

Sometimes dietary changes are enough, but you may also need medications or further testing to address underlying causes.

Do you treat patients all over Houston?

Yes. We serve Houston and surrounding areas including Midtown, Katy, Sugar Land, and The Heights.

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