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

Angiodysplasia

Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers expert treatment for angiodysplasia at GastroDoxs in Houston. Using advanced endoscopy, he diagnoses and treats gastrointestinal bleeding with precision and personalized care for lasting relief and improved digestive health.

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Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

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 Angiodysplasia?

Angiodysplasia is a condition where tiny, fragile blood vessels in the digestive tract weaken and can start to bleed.
Bleeding is often slow or intermittent and may go unnoticed for some time.
Over time, chronic bleeding can lead to anemia or low iron levels.
While most commonly found in the colon, it can also occur in the stomach or small intestine.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Advanced age (over 60), as blood vessels lose elasticity over time
Chronic kidney disease or heart disease, which affect vascular health
Use of blood-thinning medications that increase bleeding risk
Family history of vascular or bleeding disorders

Signs and Symptoms

Visible blood in the stool (bright red or dark tarry)
Fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath due to anemia
Mild abdominal discomfort or cramping
Many patients have no obvious symptoms and are diagnosed incidentally

Expert Treatment for Angiodysplasia by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your pain pattern (timing, relation to meals), medication use (NSAIDs, aspirin), alcohol intake, stress factors, and family history of GI disorders. A focused abdominal exam checks for tenderness, guarding, or masses.

Blood Tests

We order a CBC to look for anemia, liver function tests (AST, ALT), pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) and H. pylori serology or antibody to help identify infection.

Imaging Studies

Abdominal ultrasound evaluates the gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas and liver for stones, inflammation or masses.
Upper endoscopy (EGD) inspects the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis or varices and allows biopsy for H. pylori.
CT scan or MRI is used selectively to assess complications of pancreatitis or rule out tumors.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

Endoscopic ultrasound provides detailed imaging of the pancreatic and biliary ducts. 24-hour pH-impedance testing can evaluate for acid reflux or non-acid reflux contributing to epigastric pain.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for angiodysplasia.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

Personalized guidance on iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and leafy greens
Hydration strategies to support healthy digestion
Recommendations to avoid alcohol and NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) that may worsen bleeding

2. Medications

Oral or IV iron supplements to correct anemia and boost red blood cell counts
Hormone therapy in select cases to help reduce bleeding episodes
Careful adjustment of blood-thinner dosages in coordination with your prescribing physician

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

Endoscopic argon plasma coagulation to seal and stop bleeding vessels
Angiographic embolization for persistent or hard-to-reach bleeding sites
Surgical intervention only when less invasive treatments have been exhausted

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487

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 487 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

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 causes angiodysplasia?

Age-related weakening of small digestive tract vessels, along with conditions like kidney or heart disease and certain medications, can lead to angiodysplasia.

How is angiodysplasia found in the small intestine?

Capsule endoscopy or deep enteroscopy allows Dr. Pothuri to visualize and diagnose angiodysplasia in the small bowel.

Can angiodysplasia occur in the stomach?

Yes. An upper endoscopy is used to identify and treat angiodysplasia in the stomach.

Is surgery needed to treat angiodysplasia?

Most cases are managed endoscopically with techniques like argon plasma coagulation or angiographic embolization; surgery is rarely required.

Can diet and lifestyle help manage angiodysplasia?

Eating iron-rich foods, staying hydrated, and avoiding NSAIDs or excess alcohol can support treatment and prevent anemia.

Are blood thinners a concern with angiodysplasia?

Yes. Blood thinners can increase bleeding risk. Dr. Pothuri works with your healthcare team to adjust medications safely.

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