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Ulcers

Houston residents suffering from peptic ulcers can find expert diagnosis and personalized care at GastroDoxs under Dr. Bharat Pothuri. Utilizing advanced endoscopy, H. pylori testing, and tailored treatments-including medications, lifestyle guidance, and minimally invasive procedures-patients receive comprehensive support for relief.

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Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

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 Are Ulcers?

Open sores in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine
Also called gastric ulcers (stomach) or duodenal ulcers (small intestine)
Can cause pain, bleeding, and other digestive issues

Common Causes and Risk Factors

H. pylori infection-bacteria that damages the stomach lining
Frequent NSAID use (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
Smoking or heavy alcohol consumption
High stress levels (worsens existing ulcers)
Family history of peptic ulcers

Signs and Symptoms

Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, often between meals or at night
Bloating, belching, or feeling full quickly
Nausea or vomiting
Dark, tarry stools indicating bleeding
Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite

Expert Treatment for Ulcers by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your symptom pattern-burning epigastric pain, timing around meals or at night-and assesses risk factors such as NSAID use, alcohol, smoking, stress, and family history.

H. pylori Testing

Detection of Helicobacter pylori via breath test, stool antigen, or blood antibody helps identify a leading cause of peptic ulcers.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Direct visualization of the stomach and duodenum with a flexible camera pinpoints ulcer location and size.
Tissue biopsies check for H. pylori infection and exclude other causes like malignancy.

Laboratory Studies

Complete blood count (CBC) to detect anemia from chronic bleeding.
Stool occult blood test to screen for hidden gastrointestinal bleeding.

Imaging (If Indicated)

In select cases-such as suspected perforation or obstruction-a CT scan or barium swallow may be ordered to evaluate complications.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for ulcer treatment.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

Avoid foods that trigger pain (spicy, acidic, or fried foods)
Eat smaller meals more often
Quit smoking and limit alcohol
Practice stress relief such as deep breathing, yoga, or walking

2. Medications

PPIs (proton pump inhibitors) - reduce stomach acid and help healing
H2 blockers - lower acid production
Antibiotics - treat H. pylori infection
Antacids and protectants - ease symptoms and coat the stomach lining

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

Endoscopic treatment - stop bleeding with clips or heat
Laparoscopic surgery - fix serious ulcers using small incisions

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

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

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 foods should I avoid with ulcers?

Spicy foods, alcohol, caffeine, citrus, and fried meals may irritate the stomach and worsen ulcer pain.

Can stress cause ulcers?

Stress doesn't directly cause ulcers but can increase stomach acid and make ulcer symptoms more severe.

How are ulcers diagnosed?

Dr. Pothuri uses upper endoscopy, lab tests, and H. pylori screening (breath, blood, or stool) to confirm ulcers.

What are the types of ulcers?

Gastric ulcers often cause pain after meals. Duodenal ulcers typically cause pain between meals or at night.

How long does it take ulcers to heal?

With proper medication and lifestyle changes, most ulcers heal in 4-8 weeks.

Can ulcers come back?

Yes. Following your treatment plan, avoiding NSAIDs, and treating H. pylori reduce the risk of recurrence.

When should I seek emergency help?

If you vomit blood, pass black or tarry stools, or experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, go to the ER immediately.

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