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

Diseases Of Stomach And Duodenum

At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides expert evaluation and treatment for gastritis, duodenitis and peptic ulcers. By combining diagnostics, lifestyle guidance and tailored therapies, he helps patients relieve pain, heal lining and restore quality of life.

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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

  • Infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria
  • Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Smoking or using other tobacco products
  • Chronic stress or prolonged physical/emotional strain
  • Family history of gastric or duodenal disorders
  • Age over 50 years

Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning or sharp pain in the upper abdomen
  • Bloating or feeling full soon after eating
  • Nausea or episodes of vomiting
  • Belching, gas, or indigestion
  • Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss
  • Dark, tarry stools indicating possible bleeding

Expert Treatment for Diseases of Stomach And Duodenum by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews the onset and pattern of your epigastric pain, diet and medication use (NSAIDs, alcohol), smoking history, stress factors and family history of digestive disorders.

Laboratory Tests

Basic blood work checks for anemia, inflammation and rules out liver or pancreatic causes of upper-abdominal pain.

Non-Invasive H. pylori Testing

  • Urea breath test detects active H. pylori infection.
  • Stool antigen test confirms the presence of bacterial antigens.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

A thin, flexible camera examines the stomach and duodenum directly. Biopsies can be taken to identify gastritis, duodenitis or peptic ulcers.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound screens for gallstones, pancreatitis or fluid collections.
  • CT scan provides detailed images when complications or alternative diagnoses are suspected.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In select cases, tissue biopsy during endoscopy or specialized motility studies clarify complex or refractory conditions.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for Stomach And Duodenum.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Support

  • Increase fiber intake with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans
  • Drink plenty of water to keep stools soft
  • Avoid straining-use a footstool to optimize posture during bowel movements
  • Incorporate light exercise to improve blood flow and promote healing

2. Medications

  • Fiber supplements or stool softeners to ease bowel movements
  • Topical creams and suppositories to reduce pain, swelling, and itching
  • Pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort
  • Antibiotics when an infection or abscess is present

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Rubber band ligation for internal hemorrhoids
  • Infrared coagulation to shrink swollen veins
  • Endoscopic or surgical repair of fistulas
  • Minimally invasive surgery to correct rectal prolapse
11.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 11.5K 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

What are common stomach and duodenal diseases?

Conditions include gastritis, peptic ulcers, duodenal ulcers, Helicobacter pylori infection, and gastroparesis.

What causes peptic ulcers?

Most ulcers result from H. pylori infection or long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen. Stress and spicy foods may worsen symptoms.

How are these diseases diagnosed?

Diagnosis often uses endoscopy, H. pylori breath or stool tests, barium swallow X-rays, and blood work to check for anemia or infection.

What treatments exist?

Treatment may include proton pump inhibitors, H. pylori eradication therapy, dietary changes, and in severe cases, endoscopic or surgical intervention.

Can diet prevent ulcers?

Avoiding irritants (alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods) and eating small, frequent meals can reduce acid exposure and support healing.

What is gastroparesis?

Gastroparesis is delayed stomach emptying, causing nausea, bloating, and early satiety. It's often linked to diabetes or certain medications.

When should I see a gastroenterologist?

Consult if you have recurrent stomach pain, bleeding (black or bloody stools), severe nausea, or unintentional weight loss.

Are ulcers dangerous?

If untreated, ulcers can bleed, perforate the stomach or duodenum, and lead to peritonitis-a serious, life-threatening infection.

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