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

Trusted Duodenal Ulcer Doctor

In Houston, Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a GastroDoxs physician who diagnoses and treats duodenal ulcers on an individual basis. H. pylori, acid-reducing, or any other management, find specialist care to relieve the situation quickly and heal it in the long term.

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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 a Duodenal Ulcer?

A duodenal ulcer is a sore in the duodenal lining which is a cause of the stomach acid corroding the protective mucosal layer of the duodenum- the first part of your small intestine. When left to do nothing it may result in inflammation, bleeding or perforation.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection
  • Frequent use of NSAIDs (ibuprofen, aspirin)
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol consumption
  • High stress levels
  • Spicy foods and caffeine (can aggravate symptoms)

Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, often between meals or at night
  • Nausea or occasional vomiting
  • Bloating, belching, or indigestion
  • Unintended weight loss or reduced appetite
  • Pain that may radiate to the back

Expert Treatment for Duodenal Ulcer by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Symptom Review

He talks about your epigastric schemes of pain, night time pain, NSAID or alcohol intake, and other unproductive agents.

Physical Exam

Careful abdominal palpation checks for tenderness, bloating, or signs of guarding.

Upper Endoscopy

A camera-equipped and narrow and flexible tube is placed within the upper part of the GI tract and is moved to inspect the duodenal mucosa and ensure that there is the presence of an ulcer.

H. pylori Testing

  • Breath test measures bacterial urease activity.
  • Stool antigen test detects H. pylori proteins.
  • Biopsy during endoscopy provides a definitive diagnosis.

Imaging and Lab Tests

Abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or barium study could be ordered to rule out complications such as perforation; blood work tests to detect anemia or an infection; Blood work tests: This could be ordered to determine anemia or an infection.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for duodenal ulcers.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips

  • Consume low carbohydrates, such as grilled chicken or fish.
  • Include whole grains and soft vegetables in your diet.
  • Eat fruits with low acidity, such as bananas or melons.
  • During healing, avoid spicy foods, caffeine, smoking, and alcohol.

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid.
  • H2 blockers, especially for nighttime symptoms.
  • Antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection if detected.

3. Sophisticated or Minimal Invasive Procedures

  • Endoscopic intervention to prevent bleeding.
  • Surgical procedures for rare or severe cases using minimal invasive techniques.
1.3K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.3K 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

What is the time it takes to recover after duodenal ulcer?

The healing of most duodenal ulcers takes between 4–6 weeks with proper treatment, including relevant medications, dietary changes, and H. pylori eradication if necessary.

ICD-10 code for duodenal ulcer?

A duodenal ulcer without complications is classified under ICD-10 as K26.9. This code is used in medical records and billing.

Do ulcers of the duodenum provoke back pain?

Yes. Ulcers on the posterior duodenal wall may cause deep, burning back pain.

What diet should I take when I am being treated?

Choose low-acid, non-spicy foods such as bananas, melons, oatmeal, lean proteins (chicken or fish), and cooked vegetables, as these cause the least irritation.

When should I see a doctor?

Seek medical attention if you experience abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, black or tarry stools, dizziness, or unexplained weight loss.

Do I need an H. pylori test?

Yes. Diagnosis and eradication of H. pylori infection are essential for effective treatment and reducing the chance of ulcer recurrence.

Are ulcer medications safe?

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers are generally well tolerated. Dr. Pothuri will monitor and review their use to ensure safety.

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