Alcoholism increases the risk for pancreatitis.
In the human body, several organs work together to digest food completely. These include the stomach and intestines. However, the pancreas also plays an important role in digestion. This small gland, located behind the stomach, secretes hormones and enzymes that help break down food and control blood sugar. Normally, the pancreas operates without a problem, but occasionally people develop a problem known as pancreatitis, a potentially deadly condition.
Definition
Pancreatitis, according to the Mayo Clinic, is inflammation of the pancreas. It occurs when the enzymes secreted by the hormones become active within the pancreas instead of the small intestine. Pancreatitis may be acute (occurring suddenly and only for a few days). This kind of pancreatitis usually isn't serious. However, pancreatitis also can be chronic, occurring over a long period of time. This type of pancreatitis is serious and can cause life-threatening complications.
Causes
The Mayo Clinic indicates that the majority of pancreatitis cases are the result of alcoholism or gallstones. Pancreatitis also may be the result of problems such as a blockage of the pancreatic duct, surgery, cystic fibrosis, medications, injury to the abdomen and pancreatic cancer.
Symptoms
Those with pancreatitis typically experience abdominal pain. In more severe cases, this pain may radiate to the back. Other common symptoms include nausea and vomiting, fever and tenderness or swelling in the abdomen. Those with pancreatitis may experience low blood pressure, dehydration, rapid pulse, oily stools, indigestion, unintended weight loss, diabetes, cysts, breathing problems, damage to organs such as the heart, lungs and kidneys, bleeding, infection and malnutrition if the pancreatitis is severe.
Diagnosis
Doctors usually complete a blood test to confirm pancreatitis, as the condition impacts blood levels of amylase, lipase, glucose, magnesium, bicarbonate and magnesium. Doctors also may use ultrasounds, magnetic resonance images (MRIs) and computerized tomography (CT) scans to determine the extent of the pancreatitis or cysts.
Treatment
The Mayo Clinic states that most cases of pancreatitis require IV fluids and cessation of food intake so that patients don't become dehydrated. The pancreas then secretes less enzymes and can heal. Dietary changes, including the limitation of alcohol, may be necessary, and patients may need to take enzyme supplements. Surgery is an option for cases where the pancreatitis is caused by blockage or in cases where damage to the pancreas or other organs is severe enough to warrant manual repair. Doctors may drain or surgically remove cysts, put patients with kidney damage on dialysis and give antibiotics if infection is present.
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