Chronic Pancreatitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe abdominal pain and other serious health problems. Although it can come on suddenly in some cases, it typically develops over a period of years. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment for chronic pancreatitis.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of chronic pancreatitis is recurrent abdominal pain. This pain tends to be worse after eating or drinking alcohol. Other symptoms of chronic pancreatitis may include:
• Nausea and vomiting
• Weight loss
• Oily stools
• Fever
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Bloating
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
Causes
The exact cause of chronic pancreatitis is often unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Common causes include:
• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Certain medications
• Cystic fibrosis
• Certain genetic conditions
• Gallstones
• Certain infections
Treatment
Treatment for chronic pancreatitis often depends on the underlying cause. If alcohol is the cause, abstaining from alcohol is essential for managing the condition. Other treatments may include:
• Pain medication
• Anti-nausea medications
• Digestive enzymes
• Surgery to remove part of the pancreas
• Diet changes
• Antibiotics
• Endoscopic procedures
• Insulin therapy
If left untreated, chronic pancreatitis can lead to serious complications, such as diabetes, malnutrition, and organ failure. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible if you are experiencing any symptoms of chronic pancreatitis.
