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Hypertension

Facing high blood pressure? At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers expert hypertension care, combining lifestyle guidance, cutting-edge diagnostics, and tailored medication plans. From diet adjustments to advanced therapies, his board-certified team ensures effective management and improved cardiovascular health.

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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

  • Family history of high blood pressure
  • Overweight or obesity
  • High salt intake or processed foods
  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Physical inactivity
  • Chronic stress or poor sleep
  • Type 2 diabetes or kidney disease
  • Advanced age

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often none in early stages (silent condition)
  • Morning headaches
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Occasional nosebleeds
  • Shortness of breath
  • Blurred vision

Expert Treatment for Hypertension by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your pain characteristics (location, intensity, timing), dietary triggers, alcohol and NSAID use, stress levels, and performs an abdominal exam for tenderness or masses.

Laboratory Tests

We obtain a CBC (to check for anemia or infection), liver function tests, pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase), H. pylori testing (breath or stool), and a basic metabolic panel.

Endoscopic Evaluation

An upper endoscopy (EGD) allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum to detect ulcers, gastritis, or other mucosal injuries, with biopsies taken if indicated.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to assess the gallbladder, biliary tract, and pancreas for stones or inflammation.
  • CT scan of the abdomen when pancreatitis or other structural abnormalities are suspected.

Functional and Advanced Testing (if needed)

Gastric emptying studies for suspected gastroparesis, pH monitoring to evaluate acid reflux, or esophageal manometry for motility disorders.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for high blood pressure (hypertension).

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins (DASH diet)
  • Limit sodium intake to under 1,500 mg per day
  • Exercise 30 minutes most days of the week
  • Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
  • Limit alcohol (1 drink/day for women, 2 for men)
  • Practice relaxation and stress-relief techniques

2. Medications

  • ACE inhibitors to relax blood vessels
  • Beta-blockers to slow your heartbeat
  • Calcium channel blockers to ease blood flow
  • Diuretics to help remove excess salt and water

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Renal denervation for resistant hypertension
  • Baroreceptor activation therapy for tough-to-treat cases
384

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 384 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 hypertension?

Hypertension is high blood pressure-when arteries consistently measure >130/80 mm Hg-raising cardiovascular risk.

How is hypertension diagnosed?

Diagnosis uses multiple blood pressure readings on separate visits or ambulatory/home monitoring to confirm persistent elevation.

What lifestyle changes help lower blood pressure?

Reduce salt intake, eat a DASH diet, exercise regularly, maintain healthy weight, limit alcohol, and manage stress.

When are medications needed?

Medications are prescribed when lifestyle measures don't achieve target BP or when risk factors/coexisting diseases are present.

How often should I check my blood pressure?

Home monitoring once daily for a week before appointments, and routine office checks as advised by your provider.

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