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Expert Diarrhea Specialist - Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Have been getting constant diarrhea? Dr. GastroDoxs in Houston led by Bharat Pothuri provides a unique combination of case diagnostics and beyond, such as tailored lifestyle counseling and state-of-the-art therapies to detect underlying factors and supplement digestive body functions. Reliever Trust 15 years of experience in gastroenterology.

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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 Is Diarrhea?

Bowel movements that are loose and/or watery and occur three or more times in a day.
Short-term (acute): lasts a couple of days and eventually disappears.
Long-term: lasts over four weeks and may require examination.

Normal Causes and Risk Factors

Infections (virus, bacteria, parasites)
Food allergies (lactose, fructose, artificial sweeteners)
Drugs (antibiotics, cancer treatments, magnesium-based antacids)
GIT complaints (IBS, IBD, celiac disease)
Stress, travelling, or acute changes in diet

Signs and Symptoms

Loose or watery stools
Abdominal cramps or pain
Bloating and gas
Occasional or repeated bowel movements
Nausea or low-grade fever
Dehydration (dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine)

Expert Treatment for Diarrhea by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He examines your pattern of symptom-onset, stool frequency and consistency, characteristics of epigastric pain, relationship with meals, travel history and drug use as well as any weight loss or night sweats. An abdominal peritoneal inspection is attentive to tenderness, distension or masses.

Lab and Stool Tests

Pathogen (bacteria, parasites, C. difficile) and fecal calprotectin stool studies to identify inflammatory bowel disease.
Blood testing such as CBC to identify anemia, electrolytes to identify dehydration, pancreatic and liver enzymes, and a test of inflammation (CRP).

Imaging Studies

Abdominal ultrasound to evaluate gallbladder, liver, and pancreas for stones or inflammation.
CT or MRI enterography if small-bowel disease, abscess, or structural abnormalities are suspected.

Endoscopy and Advanced Testing (if needed)

If initial tests are inconclusive or symptoms persist, he may recommend:

Upper endoscopy (EGD) with biopsy to look for gastritis, ulcers, or celiac disease.
Colonoscopy to assess the colon and terminal ileum for IBD or microscopic colitis.
Small-intestinal bacterial overgrowth or malabsorption of carbohydrates: breath tests.
Capsule endoscopy or motility studies in selected cases.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for diarrhea management.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Interventions

Enhance fluids: water, clear broths, oral rehydration solution.
Bland (BRAT) diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, toast to relieve gastrointestinal complications.
Avoid irritatives: spicy or greasy food, dairy, caffeine, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners.
Introduce fiber or probiotics at tolerated concentrations to promote healthy gut flora.

2. Medications

Anti-diarrheal agents (over-the-counter preparations, e.g., loperamide, bismuth subsalicylate).
Prescription therapy for IBS or bile-acid diarrhea.
Non-antibiotic medications if infection is not detected by stool tests.
Targeted antibiotics only if a bacterial infection is confirmed.

3. State-of-the-Art Diagnostics and Procedures

Stool samples and blood tests to detect infections and assess hydration/nutrition status.
Direct visualization and biopsy of the GI tract via endoscopy or colonoscopy.
Imaging (CT/MRI) to detect structural causes when common tests are inconclusive.

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10K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 10K 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 is the cause of diarrhea in adult men and women?

Diarrhea may be caused by infection (viral, bacterial, or parasitic), food intolerance, stress, traveling, drugs such as antibiotics, or chronic gut diseases such as IBS or IBD.

When should I see a doctor?

See a doctor when diarrhea lasts over 48 hours, when you feel weak or dizzy, or when you notice blood in your stool or severe pain.

Is diarrhea treatable in the absence of antibiotics?

Yes. Unless there is an infection, it can be treated with dietary modifications, increased fluids, and over-the-counter or prescription symptom-controlling medications.

What foods should I avoid?

To minimize symptoms, avoid dairy, fried or fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, and artificial sweeteners that may irritate the gut.

What is the length of time to wait before seeking help?

If diarrhea continues for more than two days, worsens, or is accompanied by fever or dehydration, consult a doctor immediately.

Is diarrhea an indication of a serious problem?

Yes. Persistent or severe diarrhea can be a symptom of conditions such as IBS, IBD, or celiac disease, which require specialized medical attention.

How do I make an appointment?

Call to make your appointment with Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs in Houston, or visit their website to schedule your appointment.

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