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.
Dr. Pothuri begins by asking about your health and alcohol use.
He checks for signs of liver damage, like swelling or pain.
He may order blood tests to look at liver enzyme levels and protein levels.
Imaging tests such as ultrasound or FibroScan help see fat, swelling, or scars in the liver.
In some cases, a liver biopsy is done to learn how much damage is present.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 927 patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
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.
It's liver damage caused by long-term heavy alcohol use. It ranges from fatty liver to hepatitis to cirrhosis.
Fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, belly discomfort, and mild liver enzyme elevation are common early signs.
Yes, in early stages. Stopping alcohol and making lifestyle changes can help reverse fatty liver and mild inflammation.
Diagnosis includes a medical history, liver function tests, imaging like ultrasound, and sometimes a liver biopsy.
Usually no, but some people are more sensitive to alcohol or may have other risks like hepatitis or obesity.
Immediate alcohol cessation is key. Severe cases may require medications, hospital care, or nutritional therapy.
Cirrhosis is permanent scarring of the liver. It can lead to complications like bleeding, swelling, or liver failure.
Yes, if untreated. Advanced disease increases the risk of liver failure, internal bleeding, and other life-threatening issues.
Avoid excessive alcohol use, maintain a healthy weight, and get regular checkups to monitor liver health.
If you drink regularly and have symptoms or abnormal liver tests, schedule a consultation with a gastroenterologist or hepatologist.
