Over time, the pancreas may be damaged, or parts of it destroyed, by the relentless inflammation. This leads to digestive upsets. The person may pass fatty, foul-smelling faeces poo or even drops of oil. The damage to the pancreas is typically permanent. Some people with chronic pancreatitis suffer recurrent or even constant abdominal pain, which may be severe.
If much of the pancreas has been damaged, loss of insulin production can cause diabetes. Chronic pancreatitis can contribute to the development of pancreatic cancer. Diagnosis of pancreatitis Pancreatitis is generally diagnosed quickly, by examination of the abdomen, and confirmed using a series of medical tests including: General tests — such as blood tests, physical examination and x-rays.
Ultrasound — sound waves form a picture that detects the presence of gallstones. CT scan — a specialised x-ray takes three-dimensional pictures of the pancreas. MRI scan — this uses a strong magnetic field rather than radiation to take pictures of the abdomen. A special form of MRI called MRCP can also be used to get images of the ducts of the pancreas and help determine the cause of pancreatitis and the extent of damage. Treatment for pancreatitis Treatment depends on the causes and severity of the condition.
Treatment for acute pancreatitis Treatment may include: hospital care — in all cases of acute pancreatitis intensive care in hospital — in cases of severe acute pancreatitis fasting and intravenous fluids — until the inflammation settles down pain relief — adequate pain relief is essential and is often given into the vein intravenously.
With appropriate pain relief, a person with pancreatitis is able to draw deep breaths, which helps to avoid lung complications such as pneumonia endoscopy — a thin tube is inserted through your oesophagus to allow the doctor to see your pancreas.
This device is used to inject dye into the bile ducts and pancreas. Gallstones can be seen and removed directly surgery — if gallstones are present, removing the gallbladder will help prevent further attacks. In rare cases, surgery is needed to remove damaged or dead areas of the pancreas lifestyle change — not drinking alcohol. Treatment for chronic pancreatitis Treatment may include: lowering fat intake supplementing digestion by taking pancreatic enzyme tablets with food cutting out alcohol insulin injections, if the endocrine function of the pancreas is compromised analgesics pain-relieving medication.
Where to get help Your doctor Gastroenterologist Things to remember Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can be either acute or chronic. How is gallstone pancreatitis treated? What are the complications of gallstone pancreatitis?
How can I prevent gallstone pancreatitis? When should I call my health care provider? Key points Gallstone pancreatitis occurs when a gallstone blocks your pancreatic duct causing inflammation and pain in your pancreas. If untreated, gallstone pancreatitis can cause serious complications.
Gallstone pancreatitis may require hospitalization where you will be treated with IV medicines and fluids. Removal of the gallstone may require surgery or an endoscopic procedure. Eventual removal of your gallbladder may be recommended. Next steps Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider: Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen. Before your visit, write down questions you want answered. Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your healthcare provider tells you.
At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis, and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your healthcare provider gives you. Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed, and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are. Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean. Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure. If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
Know how you can contact your healthcare provider if you have questions. Most of the time this will let the pancreas irritation improve in a few days. You can start eating and drinking again when your belly pain improves. If you have really bad pancreatitis, you may need to take your food through a tube or your vein until it gets better. Your doctor will give you pain medications to make the pain better, while the irritation improves.
If you have a gallstone stuck, then you may need to have this removed to prevent worsening of the pancreas irritation or infection of your bile ducts. This can be done with a scope test but sometimes needs surgery. There is a chance that the stone could pass on its own and you might not need anything done.
If the pancreatitis is really bad part of the pancreas can die and cause what is called pancreatic necrosis. Digestive Health Topics A-Z.
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