Chronic Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. Chronic pancreatitis is a kind of pancreatitis that worsens over time, causing irreversible damage to the structure and function of the pancreas.
The pancreas produces enzymes and hormones that help in food processing and digestion. It also plays an important function in controlling blood sugar levels. Chronic pancreatitis is more frequent in males than women and is more common in those aged 30 to 40.
What are the signs and symptoms?
The patient may not have any symptoms in the early stages of the illness.
- Severe pain in the upper part of the abdomen
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting and Nausea
- Breathing difficulty
- Unknown cause of weight loss
- Excessive thirst & fatigue
What are the Causes?
Chronic Pancreatitis may be caused by a variety of factors, the most prevalent of which is excessive alcohol intake. Chronic pancreatitis may also be caused by the following medical conditions:
- Autoimmune conditions
- Genetic Factors
- High levels of calcium in the blood \ sHigh levels of triglycerides
- Gallstones or pancreatic stones
How is it diagnosed?
Chronic Pancreatitis is diagnosed based on the patient's symptoms as well as test results
- Blood testing to detect pancreatic enzyme levels
- CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound scan to diagnose pancreatic inflammation
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a procedure used to detect duct obstructions and damage.
- Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) is used to assess the ducts.
How is it Treated?
- Endoscopic Surgery: A device containing a small deflated balloon is put via an endoscope and, once in the duct, the balloon is inflated to expand it. A stent is used to prevent the duct from narrowing again.
- Pancreatic Resection: This is a surgical technique that removes the head of the pancreas to ease discomfort caused by inflammation.
- Total Pancreatectomy: This is a surgical treatment that includes the removal of the whole pancreas. This is an effective solution for dealing with the pain. However, the patient will have to be dependent on treatment for the release of insulin, etc.
What are the complications?
Chronic pancreatitis may lead to major problems like:
- Anxiety, irritability, stress, and sadness are examples of psychological issues.
- A Pseudocyst is a collection of debris, fluid, tissue & pancreatic enzymes from the leakage of digestive fluids released from a faulty pancreatic duct.
- Diabetes: About 45% of people with chronic pancreatitis tend to get diabetes.
If you are facing any of these symptoms, Consult Dr. Vedant Karvir one of the best Gastroenterologist in Mumbai.
You may also read: Anal Abscess and Fistula
Thanks for reading!
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