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Overlap Syndrome

Overlap Syndrome, also known as asthma-COPD overlap, combines asthma and COPD features, causing breathing difficulties. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides comprehensive expert diagnosis, personalized effective treatment plans, advanced procedures, and lifestyle guidance to help you breathe easier.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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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.

What Is Overlap Syndrome?

Overlap Syndrome occurs when a person has both asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), making breathing more difficult and affecting quality of life.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Smoking -the leading risk factor for COPD and overlap syndrome
  • Exposure to air irritants -such as dust, fumes, and Houston air pollution
  • Long-term asthma -years of asthma can lead to COPD features
  • Family history -genetic predisposition to asthma and COPD

Signs and Symptoms

  • Wheezing -a high-pitched whistling sound when you breathe
  • Coughing -often productive, with mucus
  • Shortness of breath -especially during activity or exercise
  • Chest tightness -a feeling of pressure or constriction
  • Flare-ups -episodes of worsening breathing that may require urgent care

Expert Treatment for Overlap Syndrome by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your pain onset, location, intensity and pattern, along with dietary habits, alcohol use, NSAID or aspirin use, stress levels and family history of GI disease.

Laboratory Tests

Routine blood work (CBC, metabolic panel, liver enzymes) checks for anemia, infection, inflammation or organ dysfunction.

Non-Invasive Testing

  • H. pylori breath or stool antigen test to identify Helicobacter infection.
  • Abdominal ultrasound to look for gallstones, liver enlargement or pancreatic abnormalities.

Endoscopic Evaluation

Upper endoscopy (EGD) allows direct visualization of the esophagus, stomach and duodenum to diagnose gastritis, peptic ulcers, reflux esophagitis or tumors.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

pH monitoring or esophageal manometry assesses for acid reflux and motility disorders; specialized imaging (CT/MR) can further characterize complex cases.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for asthma-COPD overlap syndrome.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Quit smoking with support from free Houston programs
  • Stay active through walking or light workouts to strengthen your lungs
  • Follow a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support lung health

2. Medications

  • Bronchodilators (inhalers) for rapid airway opening
  • Inhaled corticosteroids to reduce lung inflammation
  • Combination inhalers addressing both airway tightness and swelling
  • Flu and pneumonia vaccines to lower the risk of lung infections

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Bronchial thermoplasty to relax airway muscles
  • Endobronchial valves for targeted support of damaged lung tissue
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation programs combining exercise, education, and breathing techniques
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 is asthma-COPD overlap different from asthma?

Overlap syndrome combines the reversible airway constriction of asthma with the persistent, long-term lung damage of COPD, so you experience symptoms of both conditions.

Can overlap syndrome affect my life expectancy?

While severe cases may impact longevity, early diagnosis, proper treatment, and healthy habits-like quitting smoking-allow many people to live well for years.

Is overlap syndrome genetic?

Genetics can play a role, but environmental factors such as smoking, air pollution, and workplace irritants are often major contributors.

How often should I see Dr. Pothuri for monitoring?

Most patients are seen every 3-6 months. Schedule an earlier visit if you experience worsening symptoms or a severe flare-up.

Are inhalers safe for long-term use?

Yes. When used as prescribed, bronchodilators and inhaled steroids are safe and effective for managing chronic symptoms.

Do I need pulmonary rehabilitation?

Many patients benefit from pulmonary rehab's structured exercise, education, and breathing techniques. Dr. Pothuri will recommend it if it suits your needs.

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