According to the best gastroenterologist in Newtown, pancreatitis refers to a disease in which the pancreas gets inflamed. A person can develop this disease due to malnutrition, diabetes, or other health conditions. Here, we will look in-depth into the causes and treatment of pancreatitis. But first, let’s check out its symptoms.
Symptoms of Pancreatitis
If you have acute pancreatitis, you will experience the following symptoms.
- Upper abdominal pain
- Abdominal tenderness
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomitting
In case you have chronic pancreatitis, you will have these symptoms.
- Upper abdominal pain that worsens after eating
- Weight loss
- Oily and smelly stools
Causes of Pancreatitis
Listed below are some causes of pancreatitis by a gastroenterologist in Newtown.
- High levels of triglycerides and calcium in the blood can result in chronic pancreatitis.
- Gallstones can cause acute pancreatitis.
- A large gallstone can get stuck at the junction where common bile duct and the main bile duct are. It can lead to pancreatitis. The pancreatic duct is responsible for carrying digestive enzymes from your pancreas. A stuck gallstone can cause these substances to back up, leading to the inflammation of both the pancreas and the bile duct.
Other factors that can cause pancreatitis are as follows.
- Drinking alcohol
- Autoimmune disorders
- Pancreatic cancer
- Metabolic disorders
- Medications
Treatment of pancreatitis
If you suffer from pancreatitis, you will be referred to a gastroenterologist who specializes in the digestive system. Pain medication will be given to you for comfort.
Endoscopic surgery or procedure will be performed by the gastroenterologist to remove gallstones, blockages, or any damaged part of the pancreas. If your pancreas is not functioning normally, your doctor will provide supplemental insulin and pancreatic enzymes.
Pancreatitis complications such as pancreatic pseudocyst or inflammatory cyst are treated with an endoscopic procedure in which a tube is inserted down the throat into the small intestine that is next to the pancreas. Pancreas stones and gallstones are removed in this endoscopic procedure.
As per a gastroenterologist in Salt Lake, your pancreatitis might also be treated with a laparoscopic procedure. This surgical technique involves small cuts that heal quickly.
During the laparoscopic surgery, the doctor will insert a laparoscope. The laparoscope with an attached camera sends images of the organs to the monitor to guide the surgeon.
It is hard to live with an acute and chronic condition like pancreatitis. So, if you notice any of the aforementioned symptoms, we recommend you consult with the best gastroenterologist in Newtown to get an early diagnosis and treatment.