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Candida

Candida, a common yeast on skin and in the body, can overgrow causing infections like thrush and vaginal yeast infections. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, lifestyle advice, advanced therapeutic options, and compassionate support.

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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

  • Use of antibiotics that disrupt healthy bacterial balance
  • Weakened immune system (e.g., diabetes, HIV)
  • Diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates
  • Hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control pills)
  • Wearing tight, damp clothing that traps moisture

Signs and Symptoms

  • White patches on the tongue, inside cheeks, or throat (oral thrush)
  • Itching, burning, or redness in the genital area
  • Bloating, gas, cramps, or other digestive discomfort
  • Painful urination or discomfort during sex
  • Skin rashes in warm, moist areas (under breasts, groin, armpits)

Expert Treatment for Candida by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your pain characteristics (onset, location, quality), triggers (food, stress, medications), relief factors, past GI conditions, NSAID or alcohol use, and family history.

Laboratory Tests

  • Complete blood count to assess for anemia or infection
  • H. pylori testing (breath, stool antigen, or serology)
  • Liver function tests, amylase, lipase to rule out hepatobiliary or pancreatic sources

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate gallbladder, liver, and pancreas
  • Upper endoscopy (EGD) to directly visualize and biopsy the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum
  • CT scan if structural abnormalities or complications (e.g., ulcers, masses) are suspected

Advanced Testing (if needed)

Esophageal pH monitoring and manometry for suspected reflux or motility disorders; gastric emptying study for gastroparesis evaluation.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for Candida infections.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Cut back on refined sugars and processed carbohydrates
  • Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables
  • Wear loose, breathable cotton clothing to keep skin dry
  • Manage stress through light exercise, meditation, or mindfulness practices

2. Medications

  • Topical antifungal creams for skin or vaginal infections
  • Oral antifungal pills for oral thrush or gut overgrowth
  • Customized dosing schedules to minimize die-off reactions and improve tolerance

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopy to evaluate and treat severe gastrointestinal yeast overgrowth
  • Photodynamic therapy for persistent or recurrent oral thrush
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

Is Candida a sexually transmitted disease?

No. Candida infections happen because of an imbalance of yeast and bacteria, not through sexual contact.

How do you treat Candida overgrowth in the gut?

Typically, a mix of diet changes, probiotics, and oral antifungal medications is effective. Dr. Pothuri tailors the plan to your needs.

What are Candida die-off symptoms?

When yeast cells die, they release toxins that can cause fatigue, headaches, or flu-like aches. Staying hydrated and adjusting treatment pace helps manage these symptoms.

What is the ICD-10 code for Candida infection?

Most Candida infections are coded as B37.9 (candidiasis, unspecified). Specific sites, like oral thrush, have their own codes (e.g., B37.0).

Can diet help prevent yeast infections?

Yes. Reducing sugar, increasing fiber, and taking probiotics can lower your risk. Good hygiene and breathable clothing also support a healthy balance.

When should I see a doctor for thrush?

See a doctor if white patches, pain, or digestive issues persist. Early evaluation by Dr. Pothuri leads to faster relief and a personalized care plan.

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