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.
He reviews your personal and sexual history, prior outbreaks, known triggers, and any underlying health issues or medications that may affect your immune response.
Dr. Pothuri inspects the affected areas-lips, face, or genital region-for characteristic lesions, blisters, or sores, and assesses their stage of development.
If active lesions are present, he gently collects a sample from the sore for laboratory PCR or culture to detect HSV DNA and identify the specific virus type.
When sores aren't visible, he may order antibody tests to determine past exposure and distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections.
In select cases, Dr. Pothuri checks for co-infections (e.g., HIV) or evaluates immune status to tailor a comprehensive management plan.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
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.
HSV-1 typically causes cold sores around the mouth, while HSV-2 more often causes genital sores. However, either type can infect both areas through close contact.
No. Once you have HSV, the virus remains in your body for life. Antiviral medications can help reduce outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission.
Daily antiviral therapy, proper hygiene, stress management, and a healthy lifestyle can lessen the frequency and severity of genital herpes symptoms.
Yes-with precautions. Use condoms, avoid contact during active outbreaks, consider daily suppressive medication, and maintain open communication with your partner.
If you experience tingling, burning, or notice new sores, schedule an appointment promptly for exam, testing, and early treatment to manage symptoms.
Yes. Asymptomatic viral shedding can occur, meaning you can transmit HSV even without visible sores. Daily antivirals help reduce this risk.
