1.9K Reviews    |    4.7 Star Rating    |    20+ years of experience    |    72k+ Patients Treated

Anemia

Experience anemia care with Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs in Houston. Our board-certified gastroenterologist uses advanced diagnostics and personalized treatment plans to address iron deficiency, B12 or folate deficiencies, chronic anemia, and hidden bleeding, restoring your energy and lasting well-being.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
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.

What Is Anemia?

Anemia occurs when your body doesn't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your tissues. This lack of oxygen can leave you feeling tired, weak, and short of breath. The most common subtypes are iron-deficiency anemia, vitamin B12-deficiency anemia, and folate-deficiency anemia.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Iron deficiency due to inadequate dietary intake or chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstruation, GI bleeding)
  • Poor absorption of nutrients (celiac disease, Crohn's disease, gastric bypass)
  • Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency from diet or malabsorption
  • Chronic kidney disease or other long-term illnesses
  • Family history of inherited blood disorders (thalassemia, sickle cell)
  • Recent surgery or trauma with significant blood loss

Signs and Symptoms

  • Persistent fatigue or weakness
  • Pale or sallow skin, pale nail beds or gums
  • Shortness of breath, even with mild activity
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or headaches
  • Cold hands and feet
  • Rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)

Expert Treatment for Anemia by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Exam

He evaluates the onset, location, quality and timing of your pain, along with diet, medication use (especially NSAIDs), alcohol intake and any risk factors for ulcers or gallbladder disease.

Blood Tests

We obtain a complete blood count, liver function tests and pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) to rule out hepatitis, biliary obstruction or pancreatitis.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to check for gallstones, biliary sludge or liver abnormalities.
  • CT scan of the abdomen to visualize the pancreas, biliary tract and detect masses or inflammation.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

An upper endoscopy (EGD) allows direct inspection of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis or hiatal hernia. We can also perform H. pylori testing, gastric emptying studies or pH monitoring to diagnose functional disorders.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for anemia.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

  • Eat more iron-rich foods like beef, beans, and spinach
  • Add vitamin C foods like oranges to help absorb iron
  • Avoid tea or calcium-rich foods with iron-rich meals
  • Stay hydrated and engage in daily physical activity to support healing

2. Medications

  • Oral iron supplements such as ferrous sulfate or ferrous gluconate
  • Vitamin B12 or folate pills for those with specific nutrient deficiencies
  • Injectable iron formulations if oral therapy is not tolerated
  • Ongoing monitoring to adjust doses and minimize side effects like constipation

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic treatments to identify and stop bleeding ulcers
  • Capsule endoscopy to locate bleeding in hard-to-reach areas of the gut
  • Blood transfusions for severe anemia or critically low hemoglobin levels
6.4K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 6.4K 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

Can I have low iron without full anemia?

Yes. Low iron can make you tired even if your red blood cell count is still normal.

How fast will I feel better with iron supplements?

You may feel better in two to four weeks. Full recovery can take three to six months.

What is the ICD-10 code for anemia?

Unspecified anemia is coded as D64.9. Iron deficiency anemia ranges from D50.0 through D50.9.

When do I need a blood transfusion?

A transfusion is used when your hemoglobin is very low or if you are actively bleeding.

What side effects can iron pills cause?

You may experience constipation or an upset stomach. We can adjust your treatment if this happens.

Will I need a test to find hidden bleeding?

Yes. An endoscopy or colonoscopy can help locate ulcers or polyps that may be bleeding.

Can diet fix anemia on its own?

Food is important, but many patients also need supplements or procedures to fully recover.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

The Link Between Obesity and Acid Reflux

Read More
Abdominal Pain

What Is Constipation, and What Can You Do About It?

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Painless Banding: A Guide to Minimally Invasive Hemorrhoid Relief

Read More