Description

Pancreatitis is an inflammatory condition of the pancreas, an organ that plays a vital role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. It can be acute (sudden and short-term) or chronic (long-lasting and recurrent). Both forms can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Types of Pancreatitis Acute Pancreatitis: Sudden inflammation that lasts for a short time. Can range from mild to severe, with potential for life-threatening complications. Chronic Pancreatitis: Long-term inflammation that leads to permanent damage and loss of function. Often develops after repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis. Causes Acute Pancreatitis: Gallstones: The most common cause, blocking the pancreatic duct. Alcohol Abuse: Heavy drinking can trigger inflammation. Other Causes: High triglyceride levels. Infections (e.g., mumps, hepatitis). Medications (e.g., certain antibiotics, diuretics). Trauma or surgery to the abdomen. Genetic factors (e.g., hereditary pancreatitis). Chronic Pancreatitis: Long-term alcohol abuse (most common cause). Recurrent acute pancreatitis. Genetic mutations (e.g., CFTR gene). Autoimmune conditions. Obstruction of the pancreatic duct (e.g., tumors, strictures). Symptoms Acute Pancreatitis: Severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back. Nausea and vomiting. Fever and rapid pulse. Tenderness or swelling in the abdomen. Chronic Pancreatitis: Persistent abdominal pain (may worsen after eating or drinking). Weight loss and malnutrition (due to poor digestion). Oily, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea). Diabetes (due to damage to insulin-producing cells). Complications Acute Pancreatitis: Pancreatic necrosis (tissue death). Infection of the pancreas. Pseudocysts (fluid-filled sacs). Systemic complications (e.g., kidney failure, respiratory distress). Chronic Pancreatitis: Permanent loss of pancreatic function. Malnutrition and vitamin deficiencies. Increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Diagnosis Medical History and Physical Exam: Assessment of symptoms and risk factors (e.g., alcohol use, gallstones). Blood Tests: Elevated pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase). Liver function tests, calcium, and triglyceride levels. Imaging: Abdominal Ultrasound: To check for gallstones. CT Scan: To assess inflammation and complications. MRI or MRCP: To evaluate the pancreatic and bile ducts. Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): For detailed imaging and biopsy. Treatment Acute Pancreatitis: Hospitalization: Often required for severe cases. Fasting: To rest the pancreas (IV fluids for hydration and nutrition). Pain Management: Medications like acetaminophen or opioids. Treating Underlying Causes: Gallstone removal (e.g., ERCP or surgery). Alcohol cessation. Managing high triglycerides or infections. Chronic Pancreatitis: Pain Management: Medications, nerve blocks, or surgery. Enzyme Supplements: To aid digestion (e.g., pancrelipase). Dietary Changes: Low-fat diet, small frequent meals, and vitamin supplements. Diabetes Management: Insulin or oral hypoglycemic agents. Surgery: For severe pain, duct obstruction, or complications (e.g., pseudocysts). Prevention Lifestyle Changes: Limit or avoid alcohol. Maintain a healthy weight and diet. Avoid smoking. Medical Management: Treat gallstones promptly. Manage conditions like high triglycerides or diabetes. When to Seek Medical Attention Severe abdominal pain that doesn’t improve. Persistent nausea, vomiting, or fever. Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). Unexplained weight loss or oily stools. Pancreatitis is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve outcomes. If you have risk factors or symptoms, consult Pancreatitis specialist doctor Dr. Snehal Makeshwar at his GASTRO CURE CLINIC, Panchsheel Square, Dhantoli Nagpur for evaluation and management.

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