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Digest This – What is Pancreatitis?


The pancreas is an organ in your body located in the middle of the upper abdomen. It plays a large role in digestion, making enzymes to break down proteins, sugars and fats, and producing insulin and other hormones to regulate blood sugars.  Pancreatitis is a condition with inflammation or swelling of the pancreas.  Causes could be infections, viruses, medications, gallstones, congenital structural problems, inherited conditions and/or injury to the abdomen.  Sometimes, there is no clear cause.

The main symptom is pain, usually located in the upper abdomen and/or the back.  Pain can be mild to severe.  Nausea and vomiting may also occur.  Pancreatitis is diagnosed by a combination of clinical symptoms and investigations.  Lab tests of amylase and lipase (enzymes made in the pancreas) are abnormal, showing higher than normal levels. Imaging studies such as abdominal ultrasound or CAT scan (computer tomography) may be performed to look for gallstones and may show inflammation of the pancreas. Further tests may be needed to determine the cause.  If pancreatitis repeatedly recurs, chronic problems may arise like diabetes, abnormal digestion and pain.

Treatment of pancreatitis is mainly supportive.  Pain can be often severe to the point of needing hospitalization.  Medications are usually needed for pain relief.  Intravenous fluids may also be administered.  Previously, the focus was on resting the pancreas and avoiding eating or drinking.  Now, early feeding is encouraged to promote quicker recovery.  Most individuals will recover within a week, except in serious cases.

 

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