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.
He reviews your history of chronic constipation, medication use (opioids, anticholinergics), fluid intake and any abdominal discomfort (including epigastric pain). A focused exam checks for tenderness, distension and signs of complications.
Blood work (CBC, electrolytes, renal function) evaluates white cell count, hydration status and markers of infection or inflammation.
When imaging rules out perforation risk, direct visualization can confirm mucosal ulceration or exclude other pathologies.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1K 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.
Severe, long-term constipation leads to hard stool pressing against the colon wall. If not treated, it can cause ulcers, tears, or even perforation, making it a serious condition.
Yes. When stool stays too long in the colon, it exerts pressure and irritates the lining, resulting in inflammation known as stercoral colitis.
Diagnosis typically involves a CT scan or X-ray to visualize stool impaction and swelling, blood tests to check for infection or dehydration, and sometimes colonoscopy. Treatment includes increasing fiber and fluids, using stool softeners or laxatives, and, if needed, endoscopic removal of hardened stool or surgery for severe cases.
Recovery varies by severity. Mild cases often improve in a few days with diet and laxatives, while more advanced cases or those requiring procedures may take several weeks to fully heal.
Yes. Prevention involves drinking plenty of water, eating a high-fiber diet, staying active, and using stool softeners or adjusting medications that slow digestion under your doctor's guidance.
It can be if ignored, leading to perforation, infection, or sepsis. However, with early recognition and appropriate care, it is treatable and manageable.
