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

Best Esophagitis Doctor - Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Bharat Pothuri of GastroDoxs in Houston practices the diagnosis and treatment of esophagitis, which is the elimination of pain and swelling in the esophagus. He integrates the high-quality endoscopy, individualized nutritional information, and specific treatments to enable patients to experience easy swallowing and stable digestive freedom.

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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.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Acid reflux or GERD
  • Food allergies (eosinophilic esophagitis)
  • Infections (candida, herpes simplex)
  • Certain medications (e.g., NSAIDs, bisphosphonates)
  • Smoking or heavy alcohol use
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Hiatal hernia

Signs and Symptoms

  • Burning sensation in chest or throat
  • Trouble swallowing (dysphagia)
  • Pain when eating or drinking (odynophagia)
  • Feeling like food is stuck in the esophagus
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Poor appetite or weight loss (especially in children)

Expert Treatment for Esophagitis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Symptom Review

He investigates your chest pain or epigastric pain, difficulty in swallowing, burning pain, eating, medicine taking, and risk.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Using a thin, flexible scope, he inspects the esophageal lining for signs of inflammation, erosions, strictures or rings.

Biopsy

During endoscopy, small tissue samples are collected to identify eosinophils, candida, herpes or other histologic changes.

pH Monitoring & Impedance Testing

  • 24-hour pH probe measures acid exposure in the esophagus.
  • Impedance testing detects non-acid reflux events.

Barium Swallow X-Ray

A contrast study to visualize strictures, rings, motility issues or hiatal hernia.

Allergy and Laboratory Tests

Blood work and allergy panels help uncover eosinophilic triggers or infectious causes.

Esophageal Manometry (if needed)

Observes muscle contractions in order to eliminate motility problems such as achalasia.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for esophagitis.

1. Lifestyle and Dietary Interventions

  • Consume small, soft meals to minimize esophageal irritation.
  • Avoid spicy, acidic, or very hot foods that provoke symptoms.
  • Limit or eliminate caffeine and alcohol intake.
  • Undergo complete food-allergy testing and follow an elimination diet as needed.

2. Medications

  • Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): Reduce stomach acid to control symptoms.
  • Topical steroids: Used specifically for eosinophilic esophagitis.
  • Fast-acting antacids: Provide immediate relief from heartburn.
  • Antibiotics or antifungals: Prescribed if infection is present.

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • Balloon dilation: Stretches areas of esophageal narrowing.
  • Radiofrequency therapy: Firms the lower esophageal sphincter to reduce reflux.
  • Endoscopic monitoring: Non-surgical procedure to assess the esophagus accurately.
6.6K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 6.6K 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 duration of esophagitis?

Most patients begin to feel better within 2–4 weeks of treatment. More severe cases may require longer treatment and ongoing monitoring.

Is eosinophilic esophagitis reversible?

Symptoms usually improve with appropriate elimination diets and medications such as topical steroids. Some patients require ongoing care to prevent relapse.

Is esophagitis severe if untreated?

Yes. Chronic inflammation can lead to strictures, ulcers, bleeding, or scarring, making swallowing difficult. Early treatment can prevent these complications.

Can dietary changes help heal the esophagus?

Avoiding trigger foods—spicy, acidic, or allergenic foods—can minimize irritation and support healing. Dr. Pothuri customizes diet plans based on individual triggers.

Is endoscopy required for diagnosis?

Endoscopy is recommended for persistent or severe symptoms. It allows direct visualization, biopsies, and accurate diagnosis of the underlying cause.

Are natural tips beneficial in managing esophagitis?

Yes. Good sleeping habits (e.g., eating slowly and sleeping with your head elevated), maintaining healthy weight, and stress management can complement medical care and reduce symptoms.

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