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.
Appendicitis is the inflammation and infection of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. When the appendix becomes blocked, bacteria multiply rapidly, leading to swelling, pain, and-if left untreated-possible rupture.
He asks about the onset and pattern of your abdominal pain-often starting in the epigastric region and migrating to the lower right quadrant-along with appetite changes, nausea, vomiting and fever. He also reviews your prior medical history and risk factors.
We obtain a complete blood count (CBC) to check for an elevated white blood cell count and measure C-reactive protein (CRP) as a marker of inflammation.
If noninvasive testing does not yield a clear diagnosis, diagnostic laparoscopy provides direct visualization of the appendix and allows immediate surgical treatment.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 3K 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.
Appendicitis usually occurs when the appendix becomes blocked by stool, swelling, infection, or foreign objects, leading to inflammation.
Early signs include sudden pain near the belly button that shifts to the lower right abdomen, loss of appetite, nausea, and mild fever.
Diagnosis combines a physical exam, blood tests to check for infection, and imaging (ultrasound or CT scan) to visualize the inflamed appendix.
Yes. An appendectomy (surgical removal of the appendix) is the standard treatment to prevent rupture and serious complications.
In select cases, mild appendicitis may be managed with antibiotics under close medical supervision, but surgery remains the definitive treatment.
Most patients recover fully within 1-3 weeks after a laparoscopic appendectomy, with minimal scarring and a quick return to normal activities.
