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.
Esophageal ulcer refers to a rupture or defect in the lining of the tube, which pushes food in your mouth to your stomach, known as the esophagus. The stomach acid or any other irritant attacks the protective lining of the stomach leading to its development. Unattended ulcers may also bleed, scar and constrict the esophagus, although they can be treated with numerous weeks of medical support.
He questions whether or not you have pain in your chest, or epigastric area or heartburn, have trouble with swallowing, how long have your had the pain, have you been taking any medications (NSAIDs, antibiotics), do you use alcohol and tobacco, and have you lost any weight. He will even feel your abdomen and look whether it is tender or not.
Anemia due to chronic hemorrhage could be seen by a complete blood count (CBC). H. pylori antibodies or antigen tests will show infection which will commonly lead to the development of ulcers.
A small, bony scope is introduced into the esophagus to enable direct observation of the sores, ulcers, or inflammation. To eliminate yeast, viral, dysplasia/cancer, biopsies, and tissue cultures can be obtained.
Under certain circumstances, endoscopic ultrasound or CT scan is used to measure the extent of involvement of deep tissue, eliminate complications, or inform additional treatment.
Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 5.3K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
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.
K22.1 is the ICD-10 code used in medical records and insurance billing by healthcare providers.
With proper treatment, most esophageal ulcers heal within 4–8 weeks.
Chronic esophageal ulcers may raise concern, but progression to cancer is uncommon. Dr. Pothuri monitors patients closely with follow-up evaluations.
Management includes eating soft foods, avoiding spicy or acidic meals, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and taking prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
If chest pain is severe, sudden, or radiates to other areas (e.g., arm, jaw, back), it may indicate a medical emergency. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Endoscopy provides the most accurate visual assessment and allows for biopsy if needed. Dr. Pothuri will recommend endoscopy based on your symptoms and risk factors.
