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Barrett's Esophagus

Barrett's Esophagus arises from chronic acid reflux, risking esophageal cancer if untreated. At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, and minimally invasive therapies to manage the condition, reduce complications, and enhance patient outcomes.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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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

  • Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
  • Hiatal hernia
  • Age over 50 years
  • Male gender
  • Smoking
  • Heavy alcohol consumption
  • Obesity, especially abdominal
  • Family history of Barrett's Esophagus or esophageal cancer

Signs and Symptoms

  • No symptoms in early stages
  • Frequent heartburn or acid regurgitation
  • Chest burning or discomfort
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Regurgitation of food or liquid
  • Chronic cough or throat clearing
  • Unexplained weight loss

Expert Treatment for Barrett's Esophagus by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your reflux and GERD history, heartburn frequency, chest discomfort, swallowing difficulties, weight changes, lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, diet) and family history of Barrett's or esophageal cancer.

Upper Endoscopy

A thin, flexible scope with a camera is passed through your mouth to directly visualize the esophageal lining and identify any abnormal, reddened areas suggestive of Barrett's changes.

Biopsy

During endoscopy, Dr. Pothuri takes small tissue samples (biopsies) from suspicious regions. These samples are examined under a microscope to confirm the presence of intestinal metaplasia or dysplasia.

Additional Tests (if needed)

  • 24-Hour pH Monitoring: Measures how often and how long stomach acid enters the esophagus.
  • Esophageal Manometry: Assesses the strength and coordination of esophageal muscle contractions and sphincter function.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for Barretta's Esophagus.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals to reduce reflux
  • Avoid trigger foods such as spicy, fatty, or acidic items
  • Stay upright for at least two hours after eating
  • Lose excess weight, especially around the abdomen
  • Limit or eliminate alcohol and quit smoking

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to strongly reduce stomach acid
  • H2 blockers to lower acid production and promote healing
  • Customized dosing plans based on your symptoms and response

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures

  • Radiofrequency ablation to gently remove damaged tissue with heat
  • Endoscopic mucosal resection to excise small patches of abnormal cells
  • Cryotherapy to destroy unhealthy tissue with cold therapy
4.3K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 4.3K 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

How is Barrett's Esophagus diagnosed?

An upper endoscopy with biopsy is used to view the esophagus lining and take tissue samples to confirm the presence of abnormal cells.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Persistent heartburn, chest discomfort, difficulty swallowing, or regurgitation of food may signal Barrett's Esophagus. Consult your doctor if you experience these regularly.

Is Barrett's Esophagus dangerous?

Without treatment, it can increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Early detection and ongoing management help prevent progression.

What is the ICD-10 code for Barrett's Esophagus?

The ICD-10 code for Barrett's Esophagus is K22.7, used for accurate medical billing and insurance documentation.

What treatments are available?

Treatment ranges from lifestyle and dietary changes to acid-reducing medications. If abnormal cells are found, minimally invasive procedures like radiofrequency ablation or cryotherapy may be recommended.

How often should I have an endoscopy?

Surveillance intervals depend on the degree of cell changes. Mild cases may require endoscopy every 3-5 years, while more advanced changes need more frequent monitoring.

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