Pancreatitis Treatment At Digestive Institute of Arizona
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Pancreatitis
Specialized Pancreatitis Treatment: Expert Care from Our Specialists in Gilbert, AZ
At the Digestive Institute of Arizona, we promise to offer full care and support for all digestive health concerns. One such condition that we deal with is pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is a critical inflammation of the abdomen’s gland that needs immediate medical attention and professional handling. Our team, composed of experienced gastroenterologists, hepatologists, and pancreatic specialists, offers individualized care for the patient’s various needs at our facility in Gilbert, AZ.
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We use recent advanced diagnosis and inventive therapy techniques to control pancreatitis and facilitate the patients’ conditions. We involve our clients in all aspects of their medical care, from when they are first diagnosed with this disease through its management and support until it is cured. By comprising a multidisciplinary team of experts and upholding the highest quality standards, we ensure that patients with pancreatic problems receive only exceptional medical services.
Understanding Pancreatitis
Your stomach sits behind the pancreas, a lymphatic gland that helps break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for digestion. The hormone insulin is also produced by this important organ to control glucose levels within the blood. Inflammation in your pancreas is caused by activated digestive enzymes, impairing this vital organ’s functionality.
Types of Pancreatitis
There are two main types of pancreatitis:
- Acute Pancreatitis: This sudden inflammation commonly leads to severe abdominal pain. It can be resolved within a few days if managed well.
- Chronic Pancreatitis: Chronic Pancreatitis is characterized by repeated episodes of inflammation that may lead to permanent damage to the pancreas.
Causes of Pancreatitis
The most common causes of pancreatitis include:
- Gallstones: As gallstones move through the bile duct, they can obstruct the pancreatic duct, causing inflammation.
- Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Consistent drinking of alcohol for a long period of time can lead to irritation and result in damage to the pancreas.
- Hypertriglyceridemia: Raised levels of triglyceride in the blood may cause pancreatitis.
Symptoms of Pancreatitis
The prevailing sign of pancreatitis is pain in the upper belly, which may spread to the back. Other signs and symptoms include:
- Nausea and retching
- Reduced appetite
- Pyrexia
- Tachycardia
- Diaphoresis
Diagnosis of Pancreatitis
Several tests are performed to diagnose pancreatic inflammation, such as:
- Blood Tests: Test performed to measure pancreatic enzyme levels and other inflammatory markers.
- Imaging Studies: Ultrasound, CT, or MRI scan to visualize the pancreas and surrounding organs.
- ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): This procedure permits visualization of the bile and pancreatic ducts.
Treatment of Pancreatitis at DIA
Treatment of pancreatitis is mainly focused on controlling the inflammation as well as pain and addressing its cause:
Acute Pancreatitis Treatment
Acute Pancreatitis Treatment usually involves giving intravenous fluids, pain management, and fasting to rest the pancreas; however, medication or endoscopic procedures may be required to eliminate gallstones or other obstructions.
Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment
Chronic pancreatitis has no cure, but treatment is directed toward controlling symptoms and preventing further damage. This may involve using drugs for pain relief, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy for digestive support, and lifestyle changes such as dietary adjustments and abstinence from alcohol. In dangerous cases, removal of damaged tissue could necessitate surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you first come in, the doctors at our Gilbert facility will discuss your medical history and signs of illness and perform a physical examination. Further investigations can be made to establish the cause of your pancreatitis. A customized treatment plan that suits your individual needs will be drawn up.
The recovery time depends on the seriousness of your condition. Right management should make acute pancreatitis disappear in a few days. Chronic pancreatitis is a lifelong disorder that has to be controlled.