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

Hepatitis E

Concerned about hepatitis E? Dr. Bharat Pothuri at Houston's GastroDoxs provides evaluation-from detailed history and testing to tailored treatment plans, lifestyle adjustments and antiviral care. Trust his 15+ years of experience to deliver compassionate, patient-focused support ensuring your liver health.

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

  • Drinking water contaminated with HEV
  • Eating undercooked pork, wild boar, or shellfish
  • Traveling to regions with poor sanitation
  • Pre-existing liver disease
  • Weakened immune system

Signs and Symptoms

  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
  • Dark-colored urine
  • Pale or clay-colored stools
  • Fatigue or general weakness
  • Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
  • Low-grade fever or joint aches

Expert Treatment for Hepatitis E by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your travel and dietary history, water-source exposure, alcohol use, and any existing liver conditions. He also assesses for epigastric pain, jaundice, and abdominal tenderness.

Blood Tests

We measure liver enzymes (ALT, AST), bilirubin levels, and order specific serologies for HEV (anti-HEV IgM and IgG). Additional viral panels help rule out hepatitis A, B, and C.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound evaluates liver echotexture and rules out biliary obstruction or gallstones.
  • Transient elastography (FibroScan) or elastography measures liver stiffness in more severe or persistent cases.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In immunocompromised patients or unclear cases, HEV RNA PCR confirms active infection. Rarely, a liver biopsy may be performed to assess inflammation or fibrosis.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for hepatitis E.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Get plenty of rest and stay well-hydrated
  • Eat small, frequent meals with fruits, vegetables and lean proteins
  • Avoid alcohol and greasy, high-fat foods that stress the liver
  • Wash hands thoroughly to prevent spreading the virus

2. Medications

  • Supportive medicines (anti-nausea, pain relief) to ease symptoms
  • Antiviral therapy for severe cases or immunocompromised patients

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures (in rare cases)

  • Endoscopic treatments to manage portal hypertension or complications
  • Liver biopsy to assess the extent of liver injury when needed
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

How long does hepatitis E last?

Most people feel better in four to six weeks with rest and fluids.

Can I catch hepatitis E from another person?

It rarely spreads between people. It mostly spreads through contaminated water or food.

What foods should I avoid?

Do not eat raw or undercooked pork, shellfish, or unpasteurized milk.

Is hepatitis E dangerous in pregnancy?

Yes, especially in the third trimester. Pregnant women should seek immediate medical care.

How is hepatitis E different from hepatitis A?

Both affect the liver and spread in similar ways, but they are caused by different viruses. Hepatitis E can be more serious for people with other health problems.

Is there a vaccine for hepatitis E?

There is no vaccine approved in the United States. The best protection is clean water and safe food practices.

How can I prevent hepatitis E while traveling?

Drink bottled or boiled water. Avoid ice, fresh salads, and street food in high-risk areas.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

5 Ways to Manage an IBS Flare-up

Read More
Abdominal Pain

How Can a Colonoscopy Improve My Health?

Read More
Abdominal Pain

Bowel Movements: What's Normal and What's Not?

Read More