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Pancreatitis

Expert Pancreatitis Care in Houston with Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides personalized diagnosis and treatment for acute and chronic pancreatitis. Using advanced imaging, tailored nutrition, pain relief, Dr. Pothuri and the GastroDoxs team deliver compassionate, comprehensive care to restore pancreatic 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

  • Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct
  • Heavy, long-term alcohol use
  • Very high triglyceride levels (over 1,000 mg/dL)
  • Certain medications or viral infections
  • Inherited genetic conditions or family history

Signs and Symptoms

  • Sudden, severe upper abdominal pain (may radiate to the back)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever and rapid heartbeat
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Greasy, oily stools (in chronic cases)

Expert Treatment for Pancreatitis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your pattern of epigastric pain-onset, severity, duration-and asks about alcohol use, medications, family history of pancreatitis or gallstones. A focused abdominal exam checks for tenderness, guarding, or signs of complications.

Blood Tests

We measure serum amylase and lipase to confirm pancreatic inflammation. Liver function tests, triglyceride and calcium levels help identify underlying causes. A complete blood count and metabolic panel assess overall health and detect infection or dehydration.

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound looks for gallstones, bile duct dilation, and fluid collections.
  • Contrast-enhanced CT scan provides detailed images of pancreatic swelling, necrosis, or fluid pockets.
  • MRI/MRCP offers high-resolution views of the pancreaticobiliary ducts without radiation.

Endoscopic Evaluation (if needed)

If initial tests are inconclusive or if therapeutic intervention is planned, Dr. Pothuri may perform an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) to detect small stones or masses, or an ERCP to both diagnose and clear ductal blockages.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of pancreatitis care.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat low-fat foods to reduce pancreatic workload
  • Have small, frequent meals to aid digestion
  • Completely avoid alcohol to prevent flare-ups
  • Choose high-fiber foods and lean proteins for balanced nutrition

2. Medications

  • Pain relief with non-addictive options whenever possible
  • Pancreatic enzyme supplements if your pancreas isn't producing enough enzymes
  • Acid blockers to protect your stomach lining
  • Cholesterol or triglyceride-lowering drugs to control risk factors

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) to remove duct blockages
  • EUS-guided drainage of pancreatic fluid collections
  • Gallbladder surgery to prevent gallstone-related attacks
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

What is the ICD-10 code for chronic pancreatitis?

It's K86.1, which refers to long-term inflammation of the pancreas.

How do I know if my pancreatitis is serious?

Seek emergency care if you experience severe abdominal pain, high fever, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration.

Can pancreatitis cause diabetes?

Yes. Chronic damage to the pancreas can impair insulin production and lead to diabetes.

Do I always need surgery for pancreatitis?

No. Many patients improve with dietary changes, medications, and endoscopic procedures without open surgery.

How long does recovery from pancreatitis take?

Mild acute attacks often resolve within a few days. Severe or chronic cases can take weeks or longer, depending on complications.

Can I drink alcohol again after pancreatitis?

No. Even small amounts of alcohol can trigger another attack and worsen long-term outcomes.

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