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Diverticular Bleeding

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri specializes in diagnosing and treating diverticular bleeding with advanced endoscopy and personalized care. Whether you experience sudden rectal bleeding or dizziness, our expert team provides quick support to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

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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.

What Is Diverticular Bleeding?

Diverticular bleeding occurs when small pouches (diverticula) that form in the lining of the colon start to bleed. These diverticula develop naturally with age. While most episodes stop on their own, some require prompt medical evaluation and treatment.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Age over 50
  • Low-fiber diet
  • Being overweight
  • Lack of regular physical activity
  • Long-term use of NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol use
  • Family history of diverticulosis

Signs and Symptoms

  • Bright red or dark blood in the stool
  • Sudden, heavy rectal bleeding
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Weakness or drop in blood pressure
  • Abdominal cramps (less common)

Expert Treatment for Diverticular Bleeding by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your symptoms-such as rectal bleeding, dizziness, and cramping-along with your past medical history, diet, medication use (NSAIDs), and risk factors.

Blood Tests

We check your complete blood count for anemia and assess clotting studies to rule out other bleeding disorders.

Endoscopic Evaluation

  • Colonoscopy -A high-definition camera examines the colon lining to locate active or recent diverticular bleeding.
  • Therapeutic scope -If a bleeding diverticulum is found, Dr. Pothuri can apply clips or thermal therapy on the spot.

CT Angiography (if needed)

This specialized scan identifies active bleeding vessels in real time and guides interventional radiology for embolization if endoscopic control isn't sufficient.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for diverticular bleeding.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

  • Increase fiber intake with fruits, vegetables and whole grains
  • Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily to stay hydrated
  • Avoid seeds and nuts if they irritate your colon
  • Maintain a regular exercise routine to support gut health

2. Medications

  • Fiber supplements such as psyllium to bulk and soften stool
  • Antispasmodic agents to reduce colon cramping
  • Iron supplements if blood loss has caused anemia
  • Review or discontinue NSAIDs under medical supervision

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic therapy - apply clips or heat to seal bleeding sites during colonoscopy
  • Angiographic embolization - interventional radiology to block the bleeding vessel
  • Surgery - reserved for recurrent or severe bleeding not controlled by other means
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

What are the signs of diverticular bleeding?

Bright red or dark blood in your stool, sudden heavy rectal bleeding, dizziness, lightheadedness, or weakness. Seek help right away if bleeding is heavy or you feel faint.

Is diverticular bleeding an emergency?

Yes. If you experience significant bleeding, feel dizzy or faint, go to the ER or call our office immediately.

How does Dr. Pothuri treat diverticular bleeding?

He uses colonoscopy with endoscopic therapy and, when needed, CT angiography and angiographic embolization to stop bleeding without open surgery.

Can diet and lifestyle prevent diverticular bleeding?

Yes. A high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, regular exercise, and avoiding long-term NSAID use can help reduce your risk.

Will I need surgery for diverticular bleeding?

Most people do not. Surgery is rare and reserved for severe or recurrent bleeding that doesn't respond to endoscopic or radiologic treatment.

Do I need a referral to see Dr. Pothuri?

No referral is required. You can book an appointment directly with our office for expert care and evaluation.

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