Schedule Call Us Text Us

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

Top Ulcers Gastroenterologist - Dr. Bharat Pothuri

GastroDoxs under Dr. Bharat Pothuri offers its residents in Houston with the best experience in the diagnosis and provision of individual care to patients with peptic ulcers. With the help of high-level endoscopy, H. pylori examination, and more individualized interventions-medications, lifestyle counseling, and performed surgery with minimum invasiveness-patients are offered full assistance to help solve issues.

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

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.

What Are Ulcers?

Open sores in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine
Also called gastric ulcers (stomach) or duodenal ulcers (small intestine)
Can cause pain, bleeding, and other digestive issues

Common Causes and Risk Factors

H. pylori infection-bacteria that damages the stomach lining
Frequent NSAID use (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
Smoking or heavy alcohol consumption
High stress levels (worsens existing ulcers)
Family history of peptic ulcers

Signs and Symptoms

Burning or gnawing pain in the upper abdomen, often between meals or at night
Bloating, belching, or feeling full quickly
Nausea or vomiting
Dark, tarry stools indicating bleeding
Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite

Expert Treatment for Ulcers by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

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

Medical History and Physical Exam

He examines your symptom pattern-epigastric pain burning, timing relative to meals or at night-and evaluates the presence of risk factors e.g. NSAID use, use of alcohol, use of tobacco, stress and familial history.

H. pylori Testing

Diagnosis of Helicobacter pylori through the breath test, stool antigen, or blood antibody assists in identification of a cause of peptic ulcers.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

The location and size of ulcers are directly looked at by using a flexible camera in order to view the location and size of the ulcers in the stomach and duodenum.
Tissue biopsies check for H. pylori infection and exclude other causes like malignancy.

Laboratory Studies

Complete blood count (CBC) to detect anemia from chronic bleeding.
Stool occult blood test to screen for hidden gastrointestinal bleeding.

Imaging (If Indicated)

A CT scan or barium swallow can be requested to assess complications in a small number of cases, including suspected perforation or obstruction.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for ulcer treatment.

1. Lifestyle and Dietary Modifications

Avoid foods that trigger pain (spicy, acidic, or fried foods).
Eat smaller meals more frequently.
Quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
Practice stress-relief techniques such as yoga, brisk walking, or deep breathing.

2. Medications

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid and aid healing.
H2 blockers to lower acid secretion.
Antibiotics to treat H. pylori infection.
Antacids and protectants to relieve symptoms and protect the stomach lining.

3. Minimal or Advanced Procedures

Endoscopic treatment to stop bleeding using clips or thermal therapy.
Laparoscopic surgery for repairing severe ulcers with minimal invasiveness.

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

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

Which foods should be avoided in case of ulcers?

Fried foods, citrus, alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods may irritate the stomach and worsen ulcer pain.

Can stress cause ulcers?

Stress does not directly cause ulcers but can increase stomach acid and exacerbate ulcer symptoms.

How are ulcers diagnosed?

Ulcers are diagnosed through upper endoscopy, lab tests, and screening for H. pylori using breath, blood, or stool tests.

What are the types of ulcers?

Gastric ulcers typically cause pain after meals, while duodenal ulcers often cause pain between meals or at night.

What is the healing time for ulcers?

Most ulcers heal with proper medication and lifestyle modifications within 4-8 weeks.

Can ulcers recur?

Yes. Completing the full treatment course, avoiding NSAIDs, and treating H. pylori infection reduce the risk of recurrence.

When is emergency assistance required?

Seek immediate care if you vomit blood, have black or tarry stools, or experience sudden, severe abdominal pain.

Related Blogs