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Portal Hypertension

Facing portal hypertension? Dr. Rishi Chadha at GastroDoxs in Houston offers comprehensive care-from diagnosis and personalized lifestyle guidance to advanced interventions like TIPS. With board certification in gastroenterology, his team provides expert support, ensuring management and improved quality of life.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is Portal Hypertension?

Portal hypertension means high blood pressure in the portal vein. This vein carries blood from the intestines to the liver. When pressure gets too high, it can cause:

  • Swollen veins (varices)
  • Fluid in the belly (ascites)
  • Other serious issues

The ICD-10 code for portal hypertension is K76.6.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Chronic liver disease - Cirrhosis from alcohol or hepatitis
  • Fatty liver disease - Often linked to obesity or diabetes
  • Blood clots - Block normal blood flow in the portal vein
  • Schistosomiasis - A rare parasitic infection
  • Family history - Genetic factors may raise your risk

Signs and Symptoms

  • Swollen veins in the esophagus or stomach (varices)
  • Fluid buildup in the belly (ascites)
  • Enlarged spleen
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Tiredness or weakness

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses Portal Hypertension

Dr. Chadha uses a thorough, step-by-step approach:

1. Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your personal and family liver history, alcohol use, medications, and any symptoms like abdominal swelling or bleeding.

2. Lab Tests

Comprehensive blood work assesses liver enzymes, bilirubin, platelet counts and rules out viral hepatitis or other causes of liver injury. All findings are coded under ICD-10 K76.6 for accurate records.

3. Imaging Studies

  • Ultrasound with Doppler - Evaluates portal vein blood flow and checks for varices or ascites.
  • CT or MRI - Provides detailed views of liver anatomy, collateral vessels, and any vascular blockages.
  • Endoscopy - Directly inspects esophageal and gastric varices for bleeding risk.

4. Advanced Testing (as needed)

  • Transient Elastography (FibroScan) - Measures liver stiffness to gauge fibrosis severity.
  • HVPG (Hepatic Venous Pressure Gradient) - Quantifies portal pressure when noninvasive tests are inconclusive.
Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Treatment Options at GastroDoxs

1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes

  • Eat low-salt meals to reduce fluid buildup
  • Choose lean proteins and plenty of vegetables
  • Avoid alcohol completely
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Do gentle exercises like walking or stretching

2. Medications

  • Beta blockers - Lower pressure in the portal vein
  • Diuretics - Remove extra fluid from the body
  • Lactulose or rifaximin - Help prevent confusion from liver toxins

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) - Ties off bleeding veins
  • TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) - Creates a new path for blood flow
  • Embolization - Blocks bleeding veins to control hemorrhage
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes portal hypertension?

Cirrhosis, blood clots, and some infections.

What is the ICD-10 code?

The correct code is K76.6.

What are early signs?

Mild belly swelling, fatigue, or enlarged veins on imaging.

How is it diagnosed?

With blood tests, imaging (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), and endoscopy.

Can diet help?

Yes. Low-salt meals and good nutrition help manage symptoms.

What medications are used?

Beta blockers and diuretics are most common.

Is TIPS a safe option?

Yes, it's safe and effective when monitored closely.

How often should I follow up?

Every 3-6 months, or sooner if needed.

Can it be cured?

Not always, but early care can slow it down or stop it from getting worse.

Where can I learn more?

Visit Mayo Clinic's page on portal hypertension.

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