know the signs: pancreatitis

acute and chronic pancreatitis are typically diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 70, with men more likely to be diagnosed across all age groups.

by dave yasvinski

apr 25 2022

3 minute read

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pancreatitis, acute and chronic, typically produce pain in the upper abdomen that may also be felt in the middle of the back. getty

pancreatitis is a condition caused by the inflammation of the pancreas. the small organ, which sits behind the stomach in the upper abdomen, is responsible for producing enzymes (that help digest food) and hormones (that help regulate the amount of glucose in the body). when the pancreas becomes inflamed, these enzymes are released into the organ itself, damaging it and the surrounding tissue. according to the canadian digestive health foundation , pancreatitis is most commonly caused by prolonged alcohol use or the obstruction of the pancreatic duct by a gallstone.

there are two types of pancreatitis: acute and chronic. acute cases occur suddenly and can be severe enough to result in death if not properly treated. chronic cases develop gradually over time as a result of ongoing damage to the organ and can lead to a permanent and painful decrease in function. enduring cases of pancreatitis can impair the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas and increase the risk of developing diabetes. other potential complications from pancreatitis include kidney failure, infection, malnutrition, breathing problems and pancreatic cancer. with lifestyle changes and effective treatments, however, patients can expect to live a normal life.

what are the symptoms of pancreatitis?

both types of pancreatitis, acute and chronic, typically produce pain in the upper abdomen that may also be felt in the middle of the back. this pain, which may follow heavy alcohol use or eating, may feel worse while lying down and better while leaning forward. a doctor should be consulted immediately if abdominal pain becomes so intense that it is difficult to find a comfortable position that is free of pain. if pancreatitis is acute, symptoms can also include fever, nausea, vomiting, a rapid pulse and a tender abdominal area. chronic cases involve symptoms that include upper abdominal pain, unintended weight loss and oily, smelly stools.

how is pancreatitis diagnosed?

according to my health alberta , pancreatitis is typically detected by a physical examination combined with a series of tests. these procedures include blood tests (to detect elevated levels of enzymes and white blood cells), ct scans or ultrasound (to detect the presence of gallstones and inflammation), an mri (to find blocked pancreatic ducts or other abnormalities) and stool tests (to investigate if the body is absorbing nutrients properly).

how is pancreatitis treated?

historically, hospitalized patients were required to refrain from eating and drinking for a few days (while be given fluids and nutrients through an iv) to give the pancreas a chance to recover. this is no longer commonly practiced, according to the mayo clinic , with more recent data suggesting that the pancreas heals more quickly if patients are allowed to eat as soon as food can be tolerated. as inflammation and pain subsides, clear fluids and bland foods can be consumed. if pain persists, doctors may decide to use a feeding tube instead, while prescribing medication to help with the pain.

once the condition is under control, a series of procedures, including surgery, may be required to remove any obstruction that is blocking or narrowing the pancreatic duct. depending on the underlying cause of the condition, alcohol treatment or medication changes may be recommended.

how is pancreatitis prevented?

as pancreatitis is usually caused by a gallstone or excessive alcohol use, there are some lifestyle changes that can help decrease the likelihood of a painful encounter with the condition. these include avoiding alcohol, a balanced diet, with at least three meals a day, that is low in saturated fats and high in fibre, staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy bmi.

consuming coffee may also be beneficial to patients, according to research, since it stimulates digestive processes, increases the number of good bacteria in the gut and reduces the occurrence of gallstones.

prevalence of pancreatitis

data is hard to come by, but a project commissioned by the canadian digestive health foundation estimates that around 15,000 canadians are diagnosed with acute pancreatitis every year . for chronic cases, this number is just over 2,000 per year. the peak incidence for both forms of the condition is between the ages of 40 and 70, with men more likely to be diagnosed across all age groups.

support for pancreatitis

the canadian digestive health foundation offers information on pancreatitis and a range of other digestive conditions to help patients gain a better understanding of what to expect and how to best manage symptoms. there are also online forums, including one at patient , where people can connect with others who have also experience pancreatitis.

dave yasvinski is a toronto-based writer.

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dave yasvinski

know the signs: pancreatitis