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

Ulcer Of Intestine

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers expert diagnosis and personalized treatment for intestinal ulcers. Our comprehensive care-from imaging and endoscopy to medication and lifestyle advice-relieves pain, heals ulcers, and restores digestive health, with compassionate support throughout your recovery.

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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

  • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
  • Regular use of NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen)
  • Crohn's disease (inflammatory bowel disease)
  • Smoking, heavy alcohol use, or chronic stress
  • Family history of intestinal ulcers
  • Radiation therapy or rare infections

Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning or cramping pain in the middle abdomen
  • Bloating, nausea, or vomiting
  • Black, tar-like stools or visible blood in the stool
  • Loss of appetite or unplanned weight loss
  • Fever or chills if an infection is present

Expert Treatment for Ulcer Of Intestine by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He discusses your epigastric pain patterns, NSAID or alcohol use, family history of ulcers, smoking and stress levels, and checks for abdominal tenderness or signs of bleeding.

Blood Tests

Complete blood count to detect anemia, H. pylori serology or breath test, and inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR) to assess healing status.

Stool Tests

Fecal occult blood testing to identify hidden gastrointestinal bleeding.

Endoscopic Evaluation

  • Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) to directly visualize and biopsy stomach and duodenal ulcers.
  • Capsule endoscopy for a detailed look at the small intestine when ulcers are suspected beyond reach of EGD.

Imaging Studies

  • CT enterography or MRI enterography to map ulcer depth, detect perforations, strictures or associated inflammation.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

Endoscopic biopsy to rule out malignancy or uncommon infections and guide antibiotic therapy.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for intestinal ulcers.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Eat smaller, more frequent meals to minimize irritation
  • Avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and caffeine
  • Quit smoking and incorporate stress-reducing activities like walking or breathing exercises

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid
  • H2 blockers (e.g., ranitidine) to control acid levels
  • Antibiotics if Helicobacter pylori infection is detected
  • Sucralfate to coat and protect the ulcer as it heals

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic treatment for actively bleeding ulcers
  • Laparoscopic surgery for severe or complicated cases
  • Balloon dilation to relieve strictures caused by Crohn's disease
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 are the symptoms of a small intestine ulcer?

Burning or cramping pain in the middle belly, bloating, nausea, dark or bloody stools, and loss of appetite are common signs.

How is an infected intestinal ulcer treated?

Treatment includes antibiotics for H. pylori, acid-reducing medications like PPIs or H2 blockers, and close monitoring to ensure proper healing.

What is the ICD-10 code for a small intestine ulcer?

The ICD-10 code for a small intestine ulcer is K63.5.

Can diet help with ulcer healing?

Yes. Eating smaller, low-acid, low-spice meals and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and smoking supports recovery.

When should I seek emergency care for an ulcer?

Go to the ER if you experience severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or pass black, tar-like stools.

How long does it take for an intestinal ulcer to heal?

With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, most intestinal ulcers heal in 4-8 weeks, though recovery times can vary.

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