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

Muscle Loss

Muscle loss, or wasting, can sap strength and disrupt daily life. Under Dr. Bharat Pothuri's care at GastroDoxs in Houston, patients receive personalized evaluations, advanced diagnostics, nutritional guidance, and targeted therapies to rebuild muscle, enhance vitality, and prevent further decline.

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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

  • Aging -muscle mass begins to decline after age 30
  • Poor nutrition -low protein or vitamin D intake accelerates wasting
  • Chronic illnesses -Crohn's disease, liver disease, heart failure, cancer
  • Medications -some weight-loss drugs (e.g., Ozempic) can reduce muscle
  • Lack of activity -a sedentary lifestyle leads to faster muscle breakdown

Signs and Symptoms

  • Weak grip or difficulty holding objects
  • Feeling unusually tired during everyday tasks
  • Noticeably thinner arms or legs
  • Struggling to climb stairs or rise from a chair
  • Loose-fitting clothes as muscles shrink

Expert Treatment for Muscle Loss by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your symptoms of weakness or fatigue, daily diet, medication use (including weight-loss drugs like Ozempic) and any underlying health conditions.

Strength and Functional Testing

Performs a physical exam to assess grip strength, muscle tone in arms and legs, and functional tasks such as rising from a chair or climbing stairs.

Blood Tests

Checks vitamin D, serum protein levels and inflammatory markers to identify nutritional deficiencies or chronic disease contributors.

Body Composition Analysis

  • DEXA scan quantifies lean muscle mass and bone density.
  • Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) estimates total muscle mass and hydration status.

Neurological and Advanced Testing (if needed)

Evaluates coordination, reflexes and memory to rule out associated neurological issues; in select cases orders hormone panels or specialized absorption studies.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for muscle loss.

1. Lifestyle and Nutrition

  • High-protein meal plans featuring lean meats, dairy, eggs, and beans
  • Vitamin D and calcium supplementation to support muscle and bone health
  • Gentle resistance exercises using light weights or bands
  • Gut-health optimization-treating GI issues to improve nutrient absorption

2. Medications

  • Vitamin D and B-complex supplements
  • Hormone therapy in select cases
  • Medication review-monitoring drugs like Ozempic for potential muscle changes

3. Advanced Procedures

  • Nutritional endoscopy for direct nutrient delivery when absorption is impaired
  • Capsule endoscopy to identify hidden inflammation in the small intestine
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

Is muscle loss linked to dementia?

Yes. Early muscle loss can occur alongside memory decline. We collaborate with neurologists when needed to address both concerns.

Can Ozempic cause muscle loss?

Ozempic may contribute to some muscle loss while promoting weight reduction. We closely monitor body composition and adjust your treatment plan.

How can I stop age-related muscle loss?

Maintain a high-protein diet, ensure adequate vitamin D intake, and engage in regular resistance exercises like light weights or bands.

What vitamins help prevent muscle loss?

Vitamin D and calcium are essential for muscle and bone health. We often recommend B-complex supplements as well.

When should I see a doctor for muscle loss?

Consult a specialist if you notice persistent weakness, difficulty with daily tasks, or rapid changes in muscle size or strength.

Can gut issues cause muscle loss?

Yes. Conditions such as Crohn's disease or other GI disorders can impair nutrient absorption, leading to muscle wasting.

How fast will I feel better?

With a tailored diet, supplementation, and exercise plan, most patients report noticeable strength improvements within 4-6 weeks.

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