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Gastric Ulcer

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides expert diagnosis and treatment for gastric ulcers (K25). Through thorough evaluations, personalized care plans and advanced minimally invasive procedures, he helps patients relieve pain, eradicate H. pylori, promote healing and prevent complications.

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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

  • Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection
  • Long-term use of NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, aspirin)
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Smoking or tobacco use
  • High physical or emotional stress
  • Family history of peptic ulcers

Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen
  • Pain that worsens between meals or at night
  • Feeling full quickly after eating small amounts
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Dark, tarry stools (possible bleeding)

Expert Treatment for Gastric Ulcer by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your epigastric pain-its timing, triggers (like meals or NSAID use), alcohol and tobacco history, stress levels, and family history of ulcers. A physical exam checks for abdominal tenderness or signs of complications.

Blood Tests

He orders a complete blood count to look for anemia and inflammatory markers. Tests for H. pylori infection may include blood antibody assays, a stool antigen test, or a urea breath test.

Imaging Studies

  • Upper endoscopy (EGD) allows direct visualization of the stomach lining and biopsy to confirm an ulcer, detect H. pylori, and rule out malignancy.
  • CT scan or barium swallow may be used if there are signs of perforation, obstruction, or severe complications.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In select cases, endoscopic ultrasound or specialized imaging helps assess ulcer depth, evaluate nearby structures, or investigate persistent bleeding.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for gastric ulcer treatment.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Personalized meal plans featuring gentle, non-irritating foods like oatmeal, bananas, cooked vegetables and lean proteins
  • Smaller, more frequent meals to reduce acid exposure
  • Guidance on quitting smoking and managing stress to support healing
  • Advice on avoiding lying down immediately after eating

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole) to reduce stomach acid
  • H₂-blockers (e.g., ranitidine) for additional acid control
  • Antibiotic regimens to eradicate H. pylori infection when present
  • Antacids for quick relief and acid neutralization

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic therapies to stop ulcer bleeding
  • Balloon dilation for gastric outlet narrowing
  • Referral for surgery only in rare, severe cases
3.4K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 3.4K 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 is the ICD-10 code for gastric ulcer?

The code is K25.9 when the ulcer is unspecified and does not involve bleeding or perforation.

Can a gastric ulcer cause back pain?

Yes. If the ulcer is located near the back wall of the stomach, you may feel pain radiating to your back.

How long does it take to heal a gastric ulcer?

With proper treatment-acid-reducing medications and, if needed, antibiotics-most ulcers heal within four to eight weeks.

Which foods should I avoid?

Avoid spicy dishes, citrus fruits, caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and high-fat meals that can irritate your stomach lining.

What foods are best for healing?

Gentle options include oatmeal, bananas, low-fat yogurt, cooked vegetables, and lean proteins like chicken or fish.

Do I need an endoscopy?

If you have severe stomach pain, unexplained weight loss, vomiting, or signs of bleeding (dark, tarry stools), Dr. Pothuri may recommend an upper endoscopy.

Does stress cause ulcers?

Stress doesn't directly cause ulcers but can worsen symptoms and slow the healing process. Managing stress is an important part of treatment.

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