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Expert Crohn's Esophagitis Doctor - Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist in GastroDoxs in Houston, who provides the specialized treatment of Crohn inflammatory disease of the esophagus. Patients are given customized treatment plans that are based on the exact diagnosis using effective imaging and endoscopies, specific diet, medication, and procedures.

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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.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Crohn underlying disease (inflammatory disease).
Crohn disease in the family history.
Smoking or tobacco use
Normal age of onset, between 15 and 35.
Poor diet, stress may be possible environmental triggers.

Signs and Symptoms

Pain or discomfort behind the breastbone which burns.
Abnormal or painful swallowing (odynophagia/dysphagia)
Unintentional weight loss
Throat sticks something in it.
Antacids failing to relieve frequent heartburn.
Sores, or ulcers, that are seen at the back of the throat.

Expert Treatment for Crohn's Esophagitis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Symptom Review

He talks about your epigastric pain, swallowing problems, weight modifications, family history of Crohn’s disease and history of GI problems.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

The camera is a thin and flexible one that is inserted into the throat to see the lining of the esophagus and detect inflammation, ulcers or strictures.

Biopsy

Endoscopy involves taking small tissue samples to ensure changes that are caused by Crohn and eliminating other causes of inflammations.

Imaging Studies

MRI enterography provides both clear images of the esophagus and around the structures.
CT scan will measure the nature of the disease, and examine any complications beyond the esophagus.

Additional Tests (if needed)

Stool studies and blood (CBC, CRP) work assist in evaluating the general inflammation and rule out infection.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for Crohn's Esophagitis.

Diet and Lifestyle Tips

Individualized nutritional programs with soft, easy-to-swallow food.
Avoid spicy foods, fried foods or foods that contain high acidity which irritates the esophagus.
Reduced and more repeated meals to decrease swallowing pain.
Quitting and stress-relieving interventions.

Medications

Proton pump inhibitors should be used in case of acid reflux.
The initial corticosteroids to maintain acute inflammation are short-term.
Such products include immunomodulators or biologic therapy as long-term management of Crohn disease.

Minimal Invasive or Sophisticated Procedures

Remodeling of constricted regions of the esophagus, through a procedure known as endoscopic dilation.
Insertion of temporary stents in extreme strictures that maintain esophagus open.
Imaging assessment of treatment progress and elimination of complications (MRI/CT).

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Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1K 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

Why does the esophagitis in Crohn occur?

It is a complication that is caused by your immune system attacking the lining of your esophagus and resulting in deep swelling, ulcers, and inflammation.

What is the difference between Crohn and GERD esophagitis?

Crohn esophagitis is an inflammation that is mediated by immune response but GERD is a result of repeated flow of stomach acid into esophagus.

When will I begin to feel better?

Majority of patients report symptom improvement in a couple of weeks of medical treatment, as well as changes in diet, but some patients do not respond to the treatment.

Will Crohn esophagitis put me at risk of cancer?

The risk is low but not zero. Frequent endoscopic surveillance and biopsies is useful in detection of any precancerous changes earlier.

Does the procedure of esophageal dilation hurt?

No. The operation is conducted under anesthetic medication and you will feel only slight pain or compulsion thereafter.

Will I be required to use long term medicine?

Yes. Continued use of immunomodulators, biologic or other maintenance therapy is typically needed to prevent exacerbations and complications.

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