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.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) is a chronic digestive disorder marked by infrequent, hard stools and persistent abdominal discomfort. Unlike occasional constipation, IBS-C lasts for months or years and often comes with bloating, gas, and fluctuating bowel habits.
He discusses the onset and pattern of your constipation, epigastric discomfort, bloating, stressors, diet, and any family history of GI disorders.
You track meals, bowel habits, pain episodes, and possible triggers over 1-2 weeks to identify correlations.
A gentle abdominal exam assesses tenderness in the upper (epigastric) area, distension, and signs of obstruction.
- Upper endoscopy (EGD) to inspect the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum for ulcers, gastritis, or other lesions.
- Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy to rule out polyps, colitis, or structural causes when red-flag symptoms exist.
- Breath tests for small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) or carbohydrate malabsorption.
- Anorectal manometry or balloon expulsion studies to evaluate pelvic floor function in refractory constipation.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 2.9K 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.
Try apples, pears, broccoli, oats, and other high-fiber foods. Add fiber gradually to avoid bloating and gas.
Yes. Some people alternate between constipation and loose stools. This is known as mixed-type IBS.
Many patients notice improvement within 2 to 4 weeks after making diet and lifestyle changes.
Certain laxatives are safe for short-term use. Long-term use should be supervised by your doctor to avoid dependency or gut irritation.
Yes. Stress can aggravate symptoms. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or counseling can help improve gut function.
Absolutely. Regular activity-walking, swimming, or light workouts-stimulates intestinal movement and can relieve constipation.
Yes. Children and teens can develop IBS-C. Treatment plans are tailored to their age, growth needs, and lifestyle.
