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

Cystic Fibrosis

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers digestive care for adults with cystic fibrosis, addressing mucus buildup, nutritional deficits and GI discomfort. Using diagnostics, enzyme therapy, tailored diets and procedures, he provides personalized plans to improve overall life quality.

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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.

What Is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder in which thick, sticky mucus builds up in the lungs and digestive tract. The mucus clogs airways and blocks the pancreas, making breathing difficult and impairing digestion.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Inheritance of two faulty CFTR genes (one from each parent)
  • Family history of cystic fibrosis
  • Genetic-unrelated to diet or exercise, though healthy habits help manage symptoms

Signs and Symptoms

  • Digestive issues such as gas, bloating or greasy, oily stools
  • Poor growth or difficulty gaining weight despite good appetite
  • Abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort
  • Frequent lung infections, persistent cough or wheezing

Expert Treatment for Cystic Fibrosis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your CF background, pain characteristics (location, intensity, timing), digestive symptoms, diet habits and family history.

Blood Tests and Sweat/Genetic Testing

We measure sweat chloride to confirm CF, check pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) and assess fat-soluble vitamin levels (A, D, E, K).

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to detect pancreatic inflammation, gallstones or ductal changes.
  • MRCP or MRI Abdomen to visualize bile and pancreatic ducts for blockages.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

Endoscopy or ERCP for direct ductal inspection, stool elastase to quantify exocrine function, and extended CFTR mutation panels to tailor therapy.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of digestive care for cystic fibrosis.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • High-calorie, high-protein meal plans to promote weight gain and maintain strength
  • Pancreatic enzyme supplementation to improve fat and protein digestion
  • Hydration strategies and salt replacement to balance electrolytes

2. Medications

  • Mucus thinners like ivacaftor to help clear thick secretions
  • Fat-soluble vitamin supplementation (A, D, E, K) for optimal nutrition
  • Acid reducers to alleviate heartburn and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopy to visualize and evaluate the upper GI tract
  • ERCP for clearing bile duct obstructions and managing cholestasis
  • Capsule endoscopy for non-invasive assessment of the small intestine
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

Can cystic fibrosis cause digestive problems in adults?

Yes. Adults with CF often experience bloating, gas, oily stools, and difficulty gaining weight due to pancreatic enzyme insufficiency.

How is GI pain from CF treated?

Dr. Pothuri may recommend diet modifications, pancreatic enzyme therapy, acid blockers, or minimally invasive procedures like endoscopy to relieve GI pain.

Who can help with digestive problems from CF near me?

GastroDoxs in Houston specializes in CF-related digestive care. Dr. Bharat Pothuri and his team work with your CF care providers to manage symptoms.

What does Dr. Pothuri recommend for CF digestive health?

He creates a personalized plan including high-calorie meals, pancreatic enzyme supplements, vitamin replacement, and regular monitoring.

Is enzyme therapy safe?

Yes. FDA-approved pancreatic enzyme supplements are safe when used as directed. Dr. Pothuri adjusts your dose based on your needs.

Do I need regular checkups?

Yes. Quarterly visits help monitor nutrition, enzyme levels, vitamin status, and adjust your treatment plan.

Can I take my CF medicines with digestive treatments?

Absolutely. Dr. Pothuri coordinates with your pulmonologist to ensure all medications and therapies work safely together.

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