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

Peptic Ulcer Disease

Experience expert, compassionate care for peptic ulcer disease in Houston with Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs. From precise diagnostics and personalized treatment plans to minimally invasive procedures and lifestyle guidance, our board-certified gastroenterologist ensures fast relief and improved digestive health.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
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

  • H. pylori infection (a common stomach bacteria)
  • Long-term use of NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen
  • Smoking
  • Heavy alcohol use
  • High stress levels (can worsen symptoms)
  • Family history of ulcers

Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, often on an empty stomach
  • Bloating, burping, or heartburn
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Dark, tarry stools or vomiting blood (urgent warning signs)

Expert Treatment for Peptic Ulcer Disease by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your epigastric pain pattern (timing, triggers, relief), NSAID or aspirin use, alcohol and tobacco habits, stress levels, and family history of ulcers.

H. pylori Testing

Non-invasive tests (urea breath test, stool antigen) or blood antibody tests detect H. pylori infection, a leading ulcer cause.

Endoscopy

  • Upper GI endoscopy visualizes the stomach and duodenum lining to locate and assess ulcer size, depth, and bleeding.
  • Targeted biopsy of ulcer edges rules out malignancy and confirms H. pylori under the microscope.

Barium Upper GI Series (If Needed)

When endoscopy isn't possible, a contrast X-ray study outlines ulcers and evaluates motility issues.

Follow-Up Evaluation

After initial treatment, Dr. Pothuri often repeats testing or endoscopy to confirm ulcer healing and ensure no residual complications.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for peptic ulcer disease.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Stop smoking and limit alcohol intake
  • Avoid NSAIDs whenever possible
  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals and steer clear of very spicy or acidic foods

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid
  • H2-receptor blockers to lower acid production
  • Antibiotic regimens when H. pylori infection is detected

3. Minimally Invasive Treatments

  • Endoscopic clipping or cauterization for actively bleeding ulcers
  • Follow-up endoscopy to confirm ulcer healing and rule out complications
1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K 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 causes peptic ulcers?

Most peptic ulcers are caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or long-term use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen.

How do I know if I have an ulcer or just heartburn?

Ulcers often cause a burning pain when your stomach is empty; an endoscopy is needed to confirm the diagnosis.

What foods should I avoid with an ulcer?

Avoid spicy, acidic, and caffeinated foods, as well as alcohol, which can worsen ulcer symptoms.

How long does ulcer treatment take?

Most peptic ulcers heal within 4 to 8 weeks with the right mix of acid-reducing medications and antibiotics if H. pylori is present.

Can ulcers be dangerous if untreated?

Yes. Untreated ulcers can lead to bleeding or perforation of the stomach or intestine, which requires emergency care.

What is the best treatment for peptic ulcers?

A combination of proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers to reduce acid and antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori if detected.

When should I see a doctor?

Schedule an appointment if you have persistent stomach pain, black or bloody stools, or vomit blood.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

IBD-Friendly Snacks to Munch On

Read More
Abdominal Pain

All About Liver Elastography

Read More
Abdominal Pain

8 Ways to Remedy Acid Reflux Without Medication

Read More