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Best Epigastric Pain Specialist

Complaints of upper abdominal discomfort can interfere with the normal day-to-day life. Dr. Bharat Pothuri of GastroDoxs in Houston is a gastroenterologist that does the diagnosis and treatment of epigastric pain, which is caused by acid reflux, ulcers, and gallstones. Learn typical symptoms, diagnosis, individual therapies, lifestyle modification including stress management.

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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

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux
Peptic ulcers (stomach or duodenal ulcers)
Gallbladder disease (gallstones or inflammation)
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
Hiatal hernia
Regular use of NSAIDs or other ulcer-causing medications
High stress levels or poor dietary habits
Smoking, obesity, or other lifestyle factors

Signs and Symptoms

Burning, sharp, or dull pain in the upper middle abdomen
Discomfort that worsens after eating or when the stomach is empty
Bloating or feeling full after a small meal
Nausea or episodes of vomiting
Pain radiating into the back or chest
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Unintentional weight loss
Blood in vomit (hematemesis) or black, tarry stools (melena)

Expert Treatment for Epigastric Pain by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He examined your symptoms, eating, medication (NSAIDs, aspirin), alcohol, smoking history and stress. Specific abdominal examination examines tenderness, swelling or hernia.

Blood Tests

Laboratory studies include

Complete blood count (CBC) to look for infection or anemia
Liver function tests (AST, ALT, ALP, bilirubin)
Pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase)
H. pylori antibody or stool antigen testing

Imaging Studies

Abdominal ultrasound to detect gallstones, gallbladder inflammation or pancreatic changes
CT scan or MRI abdomen for detailed evaluation of the pancreas, biliary tract and surrounding organs

Endoscopy and pH Monitoring (if needed)

An endoscopic gastric (EGD) allows the doctor, Dr. Pothuri, to make a direct observation of the esophagus, stomach and duoden, and biopsy, as well as treat ulcers or bleeding. Ambulatory pH testing could be applied to measure acid reflux. Surgical operations such as ERP examine or cure the bile duct ailments in some instances.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for epigastric pain.

1. Modifications in Lifestyle and Diets

Limit to no more than one large meal a day; reduce intake of trigger foods such as spicy, fried, and high-fat dishes.
Cut down or completely stop the consumption of caffeine and alcohol.
Stop smoking and adopt stress-reduction practices such as relaxation techniques or regular exercise.

2. Medications

Antacids: Provide quick relief from acid-related discomfort.
H2 blockers (e.g., famotidine): Help reduce stomach acid production.
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole): Used for long-term management of acid-related conditions.
Antibiotic therapy: Recommended when H. pylori infection is present.

3. Minimally Invasive or High-Technology Procedures

Endoscopic treatment: Used for managing GI tract bleeding or strictures.
Laparoscopic removal of the gallbladder: Performed in symptomatic cases of gallstones.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): Used to diagnose and treat bile duct issues.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070

8.8K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 8.8k 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 it hurt following food consumption?

Postprandial (after-meal) discomfort can be caused by eating large meals or foods high in fat. Acid reflux and delayed stomach emptying can also contribute to pain after eating.

How long does the pain last?

The pain may last from a few minutes to several hours. In most cases, symptoms improve within a few days of appropriate treatment and dietary adjustment.

When is there a problem with the epigastric pain?

If the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by vomiting, fever, black stools, or unexplained weight loss, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

Is it possible to develop stomach pain because of stress?

Yes. Stress can increase stomach acid production and cause tightening of the stomach muscles, leading to discomfort and indigestion.

What is the difference between stomach pain and chest pain?

Stomach pain is usually related to food intake or digestive issues. Heart-related chest pain, however, may present as pressure, tightness, sweating, or pain radiating to the arm or jaw and should be evaluated immediately.

Is there a difference in lifestyle changes?

Yes. In many cases, lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, quitting smoking, and stress reduction can significantly reduce symptoms and improve digestive comfort.

Is endoscopy a safe test?

Yes. Endoscopy is a low-risk, outpatient procedure that allows doctors to visually examine the inside of the digestive tract and identify possible causes of symptoms.

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