All you need to know about Chronic Pancreatitis.
What exactly is Chronic Pancreatitis? Chronic pancreatitis is characterised by persistent pancreatic inflammation. The pancreas is an organ of digestion located beneath the stomach. It generates enzymes, which are proteins that help in food digestion. Inflammation of the pancreas produces pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis is defined as inflammation that occurs suddenly and lasts for a brief amount of time. When the inflammation reappears or does not heal for months or years, it is called chronic. Chronic pancreatitis may produce scarring and damage that is permanent. In the pancreas, calcium stones and cysts may occur, obstructing the duct that delivers digestive enzymes and fluids to the stomach. What Causes Chronic Pancreatitis? Chronic pancreatitis may be caused by a multitude of circumstances. The most common cause is long-term alcohol addiction. Around 70% of cases are linked to alcohol usage. Other considerations include: Obstruction of the pancreatic duct Pancreatic duct constric...