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

Angioectasias

Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a leading gastroenterologist in Houston, diagnoses and treats angioectasias-fragile, bleeding-prone blood vessels in the digestive tract. Using advanced endoscopic and imaging techniques, he offers personalized care, lifestyle advice, and minimally invasive treatments to restore health and energy.

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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

  • Age-related weakening of blood vessels
  • Heart disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Use of blood thinners
  • Regular use of NSAIDs (anti-inflammatory drugs)
  • Family history of vascular abnormalities

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often none (asymptomatic)
  • Low iron levels leading to anemia
  • Tiredness or general weakness
  • Black or tarry stools
  • Mild abdominal discomfort or pain

Expert Treatment for Angioectasias by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your digestive symptoms-such as epigastric pain, black or tarry stools-along with medication use (NSAIDs, blood thinners), cardiovascular or kidney disease, and family history of vascular disorders.

Blood Tests

We obtain a complete blood count to check for anemia, iron studies to assess iron deficiency, and coagulation panels to rule out clotting abnormalities.

Endoscopic Evaluation

  • Upper endoscopy (EGD) visualizes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to locate angioectasias or bleeding sources.
  • Colonoscopy examines the colon for vascular lesions and active bleeding.
  • Capsule endoscopy (camera pill) surveys the small intestine when standard scopes can't reach.

Imaging Studies

  • CT angiography pinpoints active bleeding and maps vascular malformations in the GI tract.

Advanced or Interventional Testing

In cases of ongoing or severe bleeding, catheter angiography can both diagnose the precise bleeding vessel and allow for embolization treatment.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for angioectasias.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Iron-rich foods like greens and meats
  • Drinking more water
  • Avoiding NSAIDs (like ibuprofen)
  • Managing high blood pressure or kidney issues

2. Medications

  • Iron supplements to restore iron levels
  • Hormone therapy in select cases
  • Octreotide injections for repeat bleeding

3. Minimally Invasive Treatments

  • Heat therapy to seal fragile blood vessels
  • Placement of small clips to stop bleeding
  • Embolization by interventional radiology to block bleeding vessels
1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K 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 is a non-bleeding angioectasia?

It is a fragile blood vessel in the digestive tract that has not yet bled. These are often found by chance during upper endoscopy, colonoscopy, or capsule studies.

What is the ICD-10 code?

Common codes include K31.89 (other specified diseases of stomach and duodenum) or K31.819 (angiodysplasia of the stomach and duodenum). Your doctor will confirm the precise code for your record.

Can angioectasias cause anemia?

Yes. Even slow, intermittent bleeding from these vessels can lead to iron deficiency and anemia over time.

Is treatment painful?

No. Procedures such as endoscopic heat therapy or clip placement are done under sedation. You may feel mild discomfort afterward, but most patients tolerate it well.

How soon will I feel better?

Most patients notice an increase in energy and improvement in blood counts within four to six weeks after successful treatment.

Can diet help prevent bleeding?

A balanced, iron-rich diet supports overall gut health and helps replenish iron stores but cannot prevent the formation of angioectasias.

When should I see a doctor?

Contact us if you experience persistent fatigue, black or tarry stools, dizziness, or any signs of internal bleeding. Early evaluation helps guide timely treatment.

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