Treating Chronic Pancreatitis

Severe abdominal pain, bowel problems, and diabetes are all symptoms of chronic inflammation to the pancreas, known as chronic pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis develops after long-term inflammation to the pancreas. In this post, we'll discuss the causes, symptoms, and effective treatments for this chronic pain condition.

Causes:

Chronic pancreatitis can come about a number of ways. Here are just a few:

• Injury – The pancreas may become injured from an automobile accident or similar trauma.

• Alcohol – Consuming alcohol over several years or heavy drinking over shorter periods of time can result in chronic pancreatitis.

• Medications – Long-term use of anti-inflammatory medications or steroids can damage the pancreas, causing chronic pancreatitis.

• Autoimmune conditions – Problems in the body's immune system can cause the body to attack it's own tissues and organs. In some cases, the pancreas is attacked.

Symptoms:

Although many people with chronic pancreatitis share similar symptoms, some may experience very few of these until the condition is at a critical point. It is important to discuss any unusual symptoms with your doctor or a specialist in pain treatment. Chronic pancreatitis symptoms may include:

• Severe abdominal pain

• Severe nausea

• Diabetes

• Weight loss

• Malnutrition

• Pain after meals high in fats and proteins

• Pain after meals high in synthetic oils

Treatments

Effective treatment for chronic pancreatitis requires a joint effort by you and your doctor. If diabetes is present, it must be addressed simultaneously. Here are some treatments to consider:

Surgery

• ERCP- ERCP is a procedure that enables your surgeon to examine the pancreatic and bile ducts. Dye (contrast material) is injected and X-rays are taken to study the ducts of the pancreas and liver.

• Diet – Avoid sugar, partially hydrogenated oils, bread, pasta, crackers, pretzels, and anything that comes in a cellophane bag. Most fast foods and processed foods contain these. Do not eat them.

• Spinal stimulator – This is an implanted device that distorts pain signals traveling through nerves. Distorting these pain signals can prevent them from reaching the brain, and keep you from feeling pain.

Exercise

• Make it a point to get some exercise each day. During treatment, your p[hysician may recommend rest, but as soon as possible, continue exercise. Exercise regulates the metabolism. The metabolism is responsible for healing.

Digestive enzymes

• Chronic pancreatitis can lead to insufficient digestive enzyme activity. Enzymes are produced naturally by the body, and play a crucial role in just about every body function imaginable. Digestive enzymes break down foods; preparing them for absorption by the body. Talk with your doctor about adding digestive enzymes to your treatment.