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

Hepatitis B

Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs in Houston offers comprehensive Hepatitis B care, from advanced diagnostics like blood tests and FibroScan® to personalized antiviral therapy. His board-certified expertise, patient-focused approach, and modern facilities ensure optimal liver health, guidance, and compassionate support.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
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

  • Contact with infected blood or body fluids (sharing needles, needle-stick injuries)
  • Unprotected sex with someone who has Hepatitis B
  • Mother-to-baby transmission during childbirth
  • Living in the same household or sharing personal items (razors, toothbrushes) with an infected person
  • Traveling to or living in regions where Hepatitis B is common

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often none in early stages
  • Fatigue or unusual tiredness
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Pain or discomfort under the right ribs
  • Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
  • Dark urine or pale, clay-colored stools

Expert Treatment for Hepatitis B by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your symptoms-especially epigastric discomfort-along with risk factors, alcohol use, and family history. A gentle exam checks for liver enlargement and tenderness.

Blood Tests

We screen for hepatitis B markers (HBsAg, HBeAg), measure liver enzymes (ALT, AST), and quantify viral load to assess infection activity.

Imaging Studies

  • Liver ultrasound evaluates inflammation, enlargement, or fatty changes and rules out other causes of pain.
  • FibroScan® or elastography measures liver stiffness to gauge fibrosis.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In select cases, a liver biopsy provides definitive information on inflammation and scarring to guide treatment.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for Hepatitis B.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
  • Avoid alcohol and fried or processed foods
  • Stay well-hydrated with plenty of water
  • Incorporate light, regular exercise into your routine

2. Medications

  • Oral antivirals such as tenofovir or entecavir
  • Routine blood tests to monitor viral load and liver function
  • Dose adjustments based on kidney and liver health

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • FibroScan® for non-invasive liver scarring assessment
  • Liver biopsy when a detailed tissue evaluation is needed
  • Endoscopy to manage or screen for related complications
788

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 788 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 Hepatitis B upset my stomach?

Yes. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

How does a GI doctor treat it?

With blood tests, imaging, and antiviral pills. Diet and lifestyle tips help too.

Does Dr. Pothuri treat Hepatitis B?

Yes. He has helped many people live well with this condition using modern therapies.

What happens if I don't treat it?

Untreated Hepatitis B can lead to liver scarring (cirrhosis), liver failure, or cancer.

How often should I get liver tests?

Typically every 3-6 months, depending on your liver health and test results.

Can I protect my family?

Yes. Ensure they get vaccinated and avoid sharing razors, toothbrushes, or needles.

Do I need a liver biopsy?

Not always. FibroScan® and blood tests often provide enough information. A biopsy is reserved for select cases.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

How to Prepare for Your First Colonoscopy

Read More
Abdominal Pain

When Abdominal Pain Is Cause for Concern

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Healthy Habits That Protect Your Gut

Read More