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

Best Cystic Fibrosis Doctor - Dr. Bharat Pothuri

At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers digestive care for adults with cystic fibrosis, addressing mucus buildup, nutritional deficits and GI discomfort. Using diagnostics, enzyme therapy, tailored diets and procedures, he provides personalized plans to improve overall life quality.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here
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.

What Is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder in which thick, sticky mucus builds up in the lungs and digestive tract. The mucus clogs airways and blocks the pancreas, making breathing difficult and impairing digestion.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Inheritance of two faulty CFTR genes (one from each parent)
  • Family history of cystic fibrosis
  • Genetic-unrelated to diet or exercise, though healthy habits help manage symptoms

Signs and Symptoms

  • Digestive issues such as gas, bloating or greasy, oily stools
  • Poor growth or difficulty gaining weight despite good appetite
  • Abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort
  • Frequent lung infections, persistent cough or wheezing

Expert Treatment for Cystic Fibrosis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your CF background, pain characteristics (location, intensity, timing), digestive symptoms, diet habits and family history.

Blood Tests and Sweat/Genetic Testing

We measure sweat chloride to confirm CF, check pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase) and assess fat-soluble vitamin levels (A, D, E, K).

Imaging Studies

  • Abdominal ultrasound to detect pancreatic inflammation, gallstones or ductal changes.
  • MRCP or MRI Abdomen to visualize bile and pancreatic ducts for blockages.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

Endoscopy or ERCP for direct ductal inspection, stool elastase to quantify exocrine function, and extended CFTR mutation panels to tailor therapy.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of digestive care for cystic fibrosis.

1. Modifications in Lifestyle and Diet

  • To ensure the increase in weight and muscle strength, high-protein, high-calorie meal plans are adopted.
  • Enhancement of the digestion of fats and proteins by the use of pancreatic enzyme supplements.
  • Water replacement and electrolyte replacement through sodium.

2. Medications

  • Mucus liquids such as ivacaftor to facilitate clearing thick secretions.
  • Adoption of vitamin supplements (A, D, E, K), which are fat-soluble to ensure optimum nutrition.
  • Proton pump inhibitors to treat heartburn and suppress gastrointestinal discomfort.

3. Minimal or High-Intensity Procedures

  • Endoscopy to observe and examine the upper GI mucosa.
  • ERCP to unblock ducts of the bile and treat cholestasis.
  • Non-invasive small intestine evaluation with capsule endoscopy.
1K

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

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

Is cystic fibrosis bad enough to induce digestive problems in adults?

Yes. CF can cause adults to experience bloating, gaseous stools, greasy bowels, and weight loss as pancreatic enzymes are unable to work properly.

How is GI pain from CF treated?

To treat GI pain, Dr. Pothuri might prescribe changes in the diet, pancreatic enzymes, acid blockers, or less invasive treatment methods such as endoscopy.

Who can assist me with CF-related digestive issues near me?

GastroDoxs is a CF-related digestive care center in Houston, which collaborates with your CF care providers to alleviate symptoms.

What is Dr. Pothuri's suggestion for CF digestive health?

He develops an individualized diet entailing high-calorie food, pancreatic enzyme formulations, vitamin supplements, and frequent testing.

Is enzyme therapy safe?

Yes. Pancreatic enzyme supplements approved by the FDA are safe when taken as prescribed. Dr. Pothuri adjusts your dose based on your requirements.

Do I need regular checkups?

Yes. Quarterly visits help check nutrition, enzyme dosage, vitamin levels, and allow readjustment of the treatment plan.

Is it possible to take my CF medicine with digestive treatments?

Absolutely. Dr. Pothuri coordinates with your pulmonologist to ensure that all medications and treatments are safe to use together.

Related Blogs
Abdominal Pain

Understanding Your Risk for Colon Cancer

Read More
Abdominal Pain

When Is Abdominal Pain a Sign of Ulcerative Colitis?

Read More
Abdominal Pain

The Difference Between a Bellyache and Abdominal Pain

Read More