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Top Diverticular Bleeding Gastroenterologist

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a specialist in the diagnosis and treatment of diverticular bleeding in personalized care and advanced endoscopy at GastroDoxs in Houston. Be it sudden rectal bleeding or dizziness, when you make an appointment with our team of experts, you get swift service to treat the condition and avoid complications.

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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 Diverticular Bleeding?

Diverticular bleeding is an issue where small pockets (diverticula) which develop in the colon lining begin to bleed. These diverticula are normal age related. Though the majority of the episodes cease on their own, others demand immediate medical care and treatment.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Age over 50
  • Low-fiber diet
  • Being overweight
  • Lack of regular physical activity
  • Long-term use of NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol use
  • Family history of diverticulosis

Signs and Symptoms

  • Bright red or dark blood in the stool
  • Sudden, heavy rectal bleeding
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Weakness or drop in blood pressure
  • Abdominal cramps (less common)

Expert Treatment for Diverticular Bleeding by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Exam

He examines your medical history, symptoms, rectal bleeding, feeling lightheaded and cramped, and your past medical history, diet, use of medication (NSAIDs) and risk factors.

Blood Tests

We also request weight of erythrocytes in blood to test the presence of anemia and clotting investigations to exclude the possibility of other bleeding disorders.

Endoscopic Evaluation

  • Colonoscopy -A highly-powered camera observes the lining of the colon in order to detect active or recent bleeding in the diverticulitis.
  • Therapeutic scope -If a bleeding diverticulum is found, Dr. Pothuri can apply clips or thermal therapy on the spot.

CT Angiography (if needed)

This purposeful scan recognizes the existence of active bleeding vessels in real time and transmits the interventional radiology, wherein embolization could be necessary to counter the implementation of endoscopic control.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for diverticular bleeding.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes

  • Enhance the consumption of whole grains, vegetables, and fruits.
  • Consume water in an amount of 6-8 glasses per day to achieve hydration.
  • Avoid seeds and nuts that may irritate the colon.
  • Exercise regularly to support gut health.

2. Medications

  • Fiber supplements like psyllium to soften and bulk the stool.
  • Antispasmodic drugs to alleviate colon cramping.
  • Administer iron supplements in case of anemia caused by blood loss.
  • Stop or re-evaluate NSAID use under doctor supervision.

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Endoscopic therapy – seal bleeding sites and apply heat via endoscopic instruments.
  • Angiographic embolization – interventional radiology to block bleeding vessels.
  • Surgery – used as a last resort for severe bleeding that cannot be controlled by other procedures.
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

How do we tell diverticular bleeding?

Bright red or dark blood in the stool, acute hemorrhage in the rectum, lightheadedness, dizziness, or weakness. Seek medical assistance immediately in case of heavy blood loss or feeling faint.

Is diverticular bleeding an emergency?

Yes. In case of severe bleeding, dizziness, or fainting, go to the ER or call our office at once.

What are Dr. Pothuri's treatments for diverticular bleeding?

He applies colonoscopy, endoscopic therapy, and if necessary, CT angiography and angiographic embolization to control bleeding without open surgery.

Can diet and lifestyle prevent diverticular bleeding?

Yes. A high-fiber diet, proper hydration, regular exercise, and avoiding long-term NSAID use help reduce the risk of diverticular bleeding.

Will I need surgery for diverticular bleeding?

Most people do not. Surgery is uncommon and only required in severe or recurrent bleeding cases that do not respond to endoscopic or radiologic therapy.

Is a referral needed to see Dr. Pothuri?

No referral is required. You can make an appointment with our office directly to consult and be evaluated by an expert.

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