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Expert Fecal Impaction Doctor

Fecal abnormalities that may be caused by underlying digestive problems such as infection, inflammation, or bleeding include a change in the stool color, consistency, or frequency. Dr. Bharat Pothuri provides assessment and testing at GastroDoxs in Houston, and he is able to develop a personalized therapy in order to heal your digestive system again.

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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

Chronic constipation from low dietary fiber
Insufficient fluid intake leading to hard, dry stool
Physical inactivity or prolonged bed rest
Use of certain medications (for example, opioids)
Nerve or muscle disorders (such as spinal cord injury)
Aging-related decrease in bowel motility

Signs and Symptoms

Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
Persistent rectal pressure or fullness
Inability to pass stool despite the urge
Difficulty or inability to release gas
Leakage of watery stool around the blockage
Nausea, vomiting, or reduced appetite

Expert Treatment for Fecal Impaction by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Symptom Review

He inquires regarding your symptoms, diet, traveling history, and family GI problems after which he gently examines your abdomen and rectum.

Physical Examination

Colonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopy to have a direct view of the colon, excise polyps as well as take biopsies where necessary.

Imaging Studies

Abdominal X-ray to visualize the extent of stool burden and confirm impaction.
Ultrasound can help rule out other causes of abdominal pain and assess the stool mass.

ICD-10 Coding

The diagnosis is recorded under code K56.41 (Fecal impaction) to ensure accurate documentation and streamline insurance processing.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for fecal impaction.

1. Modifications on Lifestyle and Diet

Increase intake of fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Drink 6-8 glasses of water daily.
Avoid oily, spicy, and fatty foods.
Establish a regular bathroom routine.

2. Medications

Anti-diarrheal medication (e.g., loperamide).
Fiber supplements (e.g., methylcellulose or psyllium).
Antibiotics or anti-parasitic drugs for infections.
Medications used to manage inflammatory bowel disease.

3. Minimal or Advanced Procedures

Polyp removal during colonoscopy.
Hemorrhoid banding or injection therapy.
Capsule endoscopy to visualize the small intestine.
Detailed imaging with Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS).

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1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K 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

What does stool color tell me?

Black or red stool: This may be a sign of bleeding. Pale stool: This may indicate a problem with bile. Greasy stool: This can indicate fat malabsorption.

What if my stool contains blood or mucus?

It may be due to hemorrhoids, fissures, infections, polyps, or inflammatory bowel diseases such as IBD.

When should I visit a doctor for bowel changes?

If abnormal stools persist for more than a few days or are accompanied by pain, weight loss, or bleeding, plan an appointment promptly.

What tests will I need?

Depending on your symptoms, Dr. Pothuri may recommend stool analysis, blood work, colonoscopy, or imaging studies (CT, ultrasound).

Can diet help correct abnormal stools?

Yes. Dietary interventions, including increasing fiber, maintaining hydration, and reducing fatty or spicy foods, usually improve bowel movements and stool consistency.

Do I necessarily require a colonoscopy?

Not necessarily. Dr. Pothuri decides based on your age, risk factors, and initial test results.

How do I book an appointment?

Visit GastroDoxs.com or call our Houston office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Pothuri.

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