Pancreatitis, chronic (pancreas inflammation)

About Pancreatitis, chronic (pancreas inflammation)

Repeated inflammation of the pancreas causes scarring and destruction of the pancreas. Normally, the pancreas makes digestive enzymes and the hormone insulin. When the pancreas is damaged, lack of digestive enzymes can cause diarrhea and weight loss due to poor digestion. Lack of insulin can cause diabetes. Chronic pancreatitis can cause constant pain in the abdomen. The most cause of chronic pancreatitis is heavy alcohol consumption.

Symptoms

Abdominal pain, back pain, diarrhea, fatty stools (steatorrhea), fever, nausea, weakness, weight loss, vomiting, diabetes (symptoms from high blood sugar such as frequent urinating or blurred vision).

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. X-Ray may show calcium deposits in the pancreas. An abdominal CT scan can show a shrunken and scarred pancreas. Blood tests may or may not be abnormal when pancreatitis is chronic or repeated.

Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, EKG, Lipase, Ultrasound, X-ray.

Path 3 — Prescription Options

Prescription medications

Conventional treatment summary

In a flare-up of pain, a hospital stay may be needed. Avoiding alcohol is very important. Several days without food may be needed for a flare to improve. Diarrhea may improve with pills that supplement digestive enzymes. Diabetes from pancreatitis requires treatment with insulin. If a scarred area of pancreas has caused a painful collection of fluid (called a `pseudocyst,`) this may require drainage. Drainage can occur in the following ways: through the skin, through the stomach wall using an endoscope, and surgically. For more information contact the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse at: http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov

Medical specialties

Gastroenterology · Internal Medicine · Family Practice

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Pancreatitis, chronic (pancreas inflammation).