Why is lipase low in pancreatitis
- Thread starter measqu
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Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, a gland located in the abdomen behind the stomach. When the pancreas is inflamed, it can cause a decrease in the production of the enzyme lipase. Lipase is a digestive enzyme that helps break down fats in the small intestine. A decrease in lipase production can lead to poor absorption of nutrients, diarrhea, and weight loss.
Symptoms of Low Lipase in Pancreatitis
Patients with pancreatitis and low lipase levels may experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Other symptoms may include jaundice, a yellowing of the eyes and skin, as well as fatty stools.
Causes of Low Lipase in Pancreatitis
The most common cause of low lipase in pancreatitis is an inflamed pancreas. This inflammation can cause the pancreas to produce less of the enzymes needed to break down fats. Other causes of low lipase in pancreatitis include genetic disorders, alcohol abuse, gallstones, or certain medications.
Diagnosis of Low Lipase in Pancreatitis
Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and medical history. Diagnostic tests may include blood tests to measure lipase levels and an abdominal ultrasound to check for gallstones or organ damage.
Treatment of Low Lipase in Pancreatitis
Treatment for pancreatitis and low lipase levels will depend on the cause of the condition. For example, if alcohol abuse is the cause, your doctor may recommend abstaining from alcohol. If gallstones or organ damage is causing the low lipase levels, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the gallstones or repair any damage. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat an infection. Your doctor may also recommend a special diet to help reduce symptoms.
Symptoms of Low Lipase in Pancreatitis
Patients with pancreatitis and low lipase levels may experience abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. Other symptoms may include jaundice, a yellowing of the eyes and skin, as well as fatty stools.
Causes of Low Lipase in Pancreatitis
The most common cause of low lipase in pancreatitis is an inflamed pancreas. This inflammation can cause the pancreas to produce less of the enzymes needed to break down fats. Other causes of low lipase in pancreatitis include genetic disorders, alcohol abuse, gallstones, or certain medications.
Diagnosis of Low Lipase in Pancreatitis
Your doctor will perform a physical exam and ask about your symptoms and medical history. Diagnostic tests may include blood tests to measure lipase levels and an abdominal ultrasound to check for gallstones or organ damage.
Treatment of Low Lipase in Pancreatitis
Treatment for pancreatitis and low lipase levels will depend on the cause of the condition. For example, if alcohol abuse is the cause, your doctor may recommend abstaining from alcohol. If gallstones or organ damage is causing the low lipase levels, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the gallstones or repair any damage. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat an infection. Your doctor may also recommend a special diet to help reduce symptoms.