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

Anorexia

Anorexia is a severe eating disorder marked by extreme food restriction and fear of weight gain. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers compassionate, individualized care-from medical evaluation to nutritional support-empowering patients to restore health and reclaim their lives.

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.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Family history of eating disorders
  • Anxiety, stress, or perfectionism
  • Pressure to be thin or societal beauty standards
  • Major life changes or traumatic events
  • Excessive or rapid dieting

Signs and Symptoms

  • Significant weight loss or dangerously low body weight
  • Constant calorie counting or skipping meals
  • Excessive exercise or compulsive workouts
  • Frequent dizziness, fatigue, or fainting spells
  • Persistent sadness, irritability, or mood swings
  • Missed menstrual periods (in women)

Expert Treatment for Anorexia by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Review

He discusses your weight history, family history of eating disorders, current eating patterns, stressors, and lifestyle habits.

Physical Exam and Vital Signs

He checks your heart rate, blood pressure, body mass index and looks for physical signs of malnutrition or electrolyte imbalance.

Laboratory and Nutritional Tests

  • Blood work to assess electrolytes, thyroid function, liver enzymes and nutrient deficiencies.
  • Bone density scan if there are concerns about bone loss or osteopenia.

Psychological and Behavioral Assessment

He evaluates mood, anxiety levels, calorie counting or meal-skipping behaviors and reviews food diaries or questionnaires to understand your relationship with food.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for anorexia nervosa.

1. Healthy Habits and Nutrition

  • Individualized meal plans with gradual calorie increases
  • Collaboration with a registered dietitian for balanced nutrient intake
  • Gentle physical activity like yoga or stretching
  • Mindfulness exercises and stress reduction techniques

2. Medications

  • Antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications as needed
  • Vitamin D, calcium, and other supplements to support bone health
  • Close monitoring for side effects and nutritional status

3. Supportive Care and Monitoring

  • Regular therapy sessions (CBT, family-based therapy)
  • Education and support for families and caregivers
  • Frequent medical evaluations of weight, vital signs, and labs
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's the difference between anorexia and bulimia?

Bulimia includes overeating and purging. Anorexia means not eating enough.

Can someone choose to be anorexic?

No. It's not a choice. It's a medical issue that needs care.

How can I help a friend with anorexia?

Listen. Be kind. Offer to go with them to see a doctor.

Can people get better?

Yes. Many people recover with the right care.

Is treatment covered by insurance?

Most plans do cover it. Our team can help check.

How long does recovery take?

It depends. Some feel better in weeks. Others take longer.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

5 Ways (and Reasons) to Eat More Fiber

Read More
Abdominal Pain

The Link Between Obesity and Acid Reflux

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Healthy Habits That Protect Your Gut

Read More