Explanation and Causes:

Pancreatitis can come in two forms. It can be diagnosed as chronic or acute. Acute usually results from a one time injury or illness while chronic stems from a constant irritant that irreparably damages the pancreas. Smoking or alcohol would constitute cause of chronic pancreatitis.

The pancreas is located directly behind the stomach and is responsible for producing digestive enzymes and enzymes that are responsible for blood sugar control such as insulin and glucagon. These enzymes travel from the pancreas through the pancreatic duct which joins with the common bile duct. The common bile duct carries bile to the intestine to aid in the digestion of fat. When the two ducts join they enter the small intestine. When this entry way or any section of the tube that leads to the pancreas is blocked or obstructed, the enzyme meant for the intestine back up and start to destroy the pancreas.

There are several ways this causeway into the intestine can be obstructed.

  • Trauma or injury
  • Gall stones
  • Digestive problems

Other causes of Pancreatitis include:

  • Viral Infections
  • Drug reactions
  • Alcoholism
  • Cystic Fibrosis
  • Hyperparathyroidism
  • High Cholesterol
  • Diabetes

10-15 percent of pancreatitis cases are caused by unknown causes.

Symptoms:

  • Abdominal Pain
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Rapid Pulse
  • Sweating
  • Dehydration
  • Low blood pressure
  • Increased heart rate
  • Back pain
  • Diabetes
  • Malabsorption
  • Weight loss
  • Hereditary

Diagnosis and Tests:

  • Pancreatic Function Blood Tests
  • X-ray
  • Ultrasound
  • CAT Scan
  • Amylase-Lipase test
  • Stool sample looking for fat
  • Glucose tolerance test

Treatment:

For acute panreatitis laproscopic surgery is an option that is less invasive and provides much easier and faster healing. For chronic pancreatitis, lifestyle changes are necessary to ultimately treat and restore normal function. For example, a diet low in fat and void of alcohol are necessary to treat anyone with a chronic condition. Supplemental enzyme therapy is another way of treating chronic pancreatitis.

Prevention:

  • Avoid alcohol and tobacco
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Stick to a healthy diet
  • Exercise regularly

The Diabetic Alliance helps all individuals suffering from Diabetes who are on Medicare and would like their Diabetic Supplies Testing Meters delivered to their home at little or no cost.

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