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.
He reviews your ulcerative colitis history, symptom onset, family history of IBD, and any epigastric discomfort. A focused abdominal exam checks for tenderness in the right lower quadrant and upper abdomen.
We measure inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR), complete blood count for anemia, metabolic panel for nutrition, and stool studies for infection and fecal calprotectin.
Capsule endoscopy or small-bowel MRI enterography may be used in complex cases to evaluate deeper small-intestinal involvement.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 2.3K 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.
Backwash ileitis occurs when inflammation from ulcerative colitis extends into the terminal ileum. Crohn's disease can affect any part of the digestive tract and typically involves deeper, transmural inflammation.
A colonoscopy with biopsy is the gold standard. If inflammation is continuous from the colon into the ileum, it suggests backwash ileitis rather than isolated ulcerative colitis.
While dietary changes can ease symptoms, they do not stop the underlying inflammation. Most patients require medication in addition to diet and lifestyle modifications.
No. Ulcerative colitis affects only the colon. Backwash ileitis refers specifically to inflammation -washing back- into the ileum as a result of severe colonic disease.
Untreated inflammation can lead to malabsorption, nutrient deficiencies, weight loss, and an increased risk of complications over time.
Most patients are monitored every 3 to 6 months, with more frequent visits during flare-ups or medication adjustments.
For trusted resources and support, visit the Crohn's & Colitis Foundation at https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org.
