Understanding Pancreatitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
The pancreas is a vital organ located behind the stomach, playing a crucial role in digestion and blood sugar regulation. It makes enzymes that digest food in the small intestine, as well as insulin and glucagon, which regulate the level of sugar in the blood. The pancreas also contains and produces enzymes that help digestion, but when these become inflamed, causing a condition called pancreatitis, these enzymes begin to attack the pancreas itself, causing pain, digestive problems, and possibly fatal complications if untreated.
In this post, we’re going to cover the two types of pancreatitis, their symptoms and causes, and the best conventional and natural treatment options for each.
Types of Pancreatitis
Acute Pancreatitis:
Acute pancreatitis is characterised by an abrupt inflammation of the pancreas and excruciating stomach discomfort. It can range from mild to really severe, as severe as a deadly emergency, attainable only by seeking emergency treatment.
Common causes include:
- In the UK, gallstones are increasingly the most frequent cause.
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Some forms of medication (like steroids or diuretics)
- High triglyceride levels
Chronic Pancreatitis:
Chronic pancreatitis is a continuing, long-term disease that is caused by the long-term inflammation of the pancreas that alters its normal structure and functions. The pancreas, over time, gradually loses the capacity to function effectively, which impacts digestion and blood sugar.
Common causes include:
- Heavy, repeated alcohol use (most common cause)
- Inherited disorders such as cystic fibrosis
- Autoimmune disorders
- Hypercalcaemia or hyperlipidaemia in the blood
Symptoms of Pancreatitis
Acute Pancreatitis Symptoms
- Rapid onset of upper central abdominal pain (frequently referred to the back)
- Nausea and vomiting
- High fever and fast pulse (in severe cases)
- Abdominal exam: His abdomen is soft with mild tenderness upon palpation
Chronic Pancreatitis Symptoms
- Recurrent or persistent stomach ache (which may worsen after meals)
- Weight loss without cause (due to inadequate nutrition absorption)
- Oily, smelly stools (steatorrhoea)
- Nausea and vomiting
Diagnosis
Specialists may perform the following if pancreatitis is suspected:
- Physical exam (look for any abdominal tenderness)
- A blood test (to check for raised pancreatic enzymes)
- Imaging tests:
- Ultrasound (to look for gallstones)
- CT or MRI scan (to evaluate inflammation and injury)
Treatment Options
Acute Pancreatitis Treatment
- Admitted for observation
- IV fluids to avoid dehydration
- Pain relief medications
- Antibiotics (if there is an infection)
- If there is a coexistent gallstone, it can be removed
Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment
- Digestive (enzyme-boosting) supplements
- Pain management strategies
- Diet (low-fat, vitamin supplements)
- Behavioural modification (alcohol and smoking cessation)
Complications of Pancreatitis
Untreated, pancreatitis can cause:
- Pancreatic infections
- Diabetes (lack of insulin production)
- Malnourishment (due to malabsorption of nutrients)
- Pseudocysts (cysts filled with fluid, which may need to be drained)
Prevention and Lifestyle Tips
- Don’t overdo the alcohol
- Quit smoking
- Eat a balanced, low-fat diet
- Treat the cause (high triglycerides; treat this to lower the levels of HDL)
When to See a Doctor
Call your doctor at once if you experience:
- More severe or even chronic stomach problems
- Unexplained weight loss
- Oily stools
- Frequent nausea or vomiting
Conclusion
Pancreatitis is a serious condition and will need treatment at the hospital. The quality of life can be improved, and complications can be avoided with early diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone in your family has symptoms, help is available from Chase Lodge Hospital.
Book an appointment with our specialist to find out more about diagnosis and treatment.
