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

Chronic Pancreatitis

Facing persistent abdominal pain and digestive issues? Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs Houston specializes in diagnosing and treating chronic pancreatitis. Through personalized plans, advanced imaging, nutritional support, enzyme therapy, and invasive procedures, he helps patients improve digestion and ease pain.

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

  • Heavy alcohol use
  • Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct
  • Family history of pancreatic disease
  • Autoimmune disorders affecting the pancreas
  • High triglyceride (blood fat) levels

Signs and Symptoms

  • Persistent upper abdominal pain, often radiating to the back
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Oily, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Elevated blood sugar or new-onset diabetes

Expert Treatment for Chronic Pancreatitis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your symptoms-especially epigastric pain that radiates to the back-along with weight changes, steatorrhea, alcohol/tobacco use, medications, and family history of pancreatic disease.

Blood Tests

We measure pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase), check nutritional markers, and screen blood sugar to evaluate endocrine and exocrine function.

Imaging Studies

  • CT Scan: Detects calcifications, ductal dilation, and tissue changes.
  • MRI/MRCP: Visualizes pancreatic ducts and surrounding structures without radiation.
  • Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): Offers high-resolution images of glandular tissue and allows fine-needle sampling if needed.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can both confirm ductal strictures or stones and provide therapeutic drainage or stent placement in the same session.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for chronic pancreatitis.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

  • Stop alcohol and smoking to reduce inflammation
  • Eat small, low-fat meals frequently
  • Stay well hydrated with plenty of water
  • Work with our nutrition team on a personalized meal plan

2. Medications

  • Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy to aid digestion
  • Safe pain management options tailored to your needs
  • Insulin or oral diabetes medications if blood sugar is elevated

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic treatments to clear blocked pancreatic ducts
  • Temporary stent placement to improve pancreatic drainage
  • Surgical options (e.g., Puestow procedure) for severe or refractory cases
1K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1K 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 chronic pancreatitis different from acute pancreatitis?

Acute pancreatitis comes on suddenly and often resolves completely, while chronic pancreatitis develops gradually, leads to permanent damage, and may cause ongoing pain and digestive issues.

What is the ICD-10 code for chronic pancreatitis?

The medical code is K86.1. We include this in your records to ensure accurate billing and insurance coverage.

Will I feel better?

Yes. Most patients experience significant relief with pancreatic enzyme supplements, dietary changes, and targeted procedures when needed.

Can I stop flare-ups?

Many people prevent or reduce flare-ups by avoiding alcohol, following a low-fat meal plan, staying hydrated, and taking prescribed medications on schedule.

What is the long-term outlook?

With proper care, including lifestyle adjustments and medical treatment, most patients manage symptoms well and maintain a good quality of life.

How soon will I feel better?

Some patients notice less pain and improved digestion within days of starting enzymes and diet changes. Others may see relief after endoscopic treatments or stent placement.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

Reasons You May Need a Colonoscopy

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Who's at Risk for Colon Cancer?

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Understanding the Importance of Colonoscopies

Read More