Pancreatitis
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Dr. Raosaheb Rathod
M.B.B.S, M. D. (Medicine), D.M. (Gastroenterology)
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Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, a gland located behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion and regulating blood sugar levels. The condition can range from acute (sudden and short-term) to chronic (persistent or recurring over time). Acute pancreatitis is often caused by gallstones or heavy alcohol use, leading to the abrupt onset of severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Chronic pancreatitis, typically due to long-term alcohol abuse or certain genetic factors, causes persistent abdominal pain, weight loss, and digestive issues.
The inflammation in pancreatitis occurs when digestive enzymes become activated within the pancreas, leading to tissue damage and inflammation. Severe cases of pancreatitis can lead to complications such as pancreatic necrosis (tissue death), pseudocysts (fluid-filled sacs), abscesses, and in rare cases, organ failure.
Diagnosis of pancreatitis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, blood tests (to assess levels of pancreatic enzymes such as amylase and lipase), imaging studies like ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, and sometimes endoscopic procedures (ERCP) to evaluate the pancreatic ducts and obtain tissue samples.
Treatment of pancreatitis focuses on managing symptoms, preventing complications, and addressing the underlying cause. This may include hospitalization for supportive care (such as intravenous fluids and pain management), dietary changes (such as a low-fat diet), medications to control pain and reduce pancreatic inflammation, and in severe cases, surgery to remove damaged tissue or correct complications like blocked bile ducts.
Managing pancreatitis often requires lifestyle modifications such as abstaining from alcohol, managing diet to avoid triggering foods, and possibly enzyme replacement therapy if the pancreas becomes unable to produce enough digestive enzymes. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to prevent recurrence and maintain pancreatic health.