Fat Loss

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He asks about the exact location, timing, intensity and quality of your epigastric pain, its relation to meals or medications, alcohol use, stress levels, and any associated symptoms such as nausea, bloating or weight change.

Laboratory Tests

• Complete blood count (CBC) to look for anemia or infection
• Liver function tests (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin) to rule out biliary causes
• Serum amylase and lipase to exclude pancreatitis
• H. pylori testing (urea breath test or stool antigen) to detect ulcer-forming bacteria

Imaging Studies

• Abdominal ultrasound to check for gallstones, bile duct dilation or fatty liver changes
• CT scan or MRI abdomen when more detailed views of the pancreas, biliary tree or other organs are needed

Endoscopic Evaluation

Upper endoscopy (EGD) to directly visualize the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for evidence of gastritis, peptic ulcers, reflux disease or mucosal lesions.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

Endoscopic ultrasound for subtle pancreatic or biliary pathology, gastric emptying study for suspected gastroparesis, or HIDA scan to assess gallbladder function and rule out biliary dyskinesia.