The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach that produces enzymes, special proteins that aid in food digestion. It also manufactures hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. Chronic pancreatitis can occur due to autoimmune diseases and other health conditions, causing painful symptoms and affecting the digestive process. Here, we will explore the causes and symptoms of chronic pancreatitis, as well as the latest techniques for diagnosis and treatment.
What are the Causes of Chronic Pancreatitis?
There are several different causes of chronic pancreatitis. The most common cause is long-term alcohol consumption, with approximately 70% of cases linked to alcohol intake.
Other causes include:
- Autoimmune diseases, which occur when your body mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues.
- Narrowing of the pancreatic duct, the tube that carries enzymes from the pancreas to the small intestine.
- Obstruction of the pancreatic duct, either by gallstones or pancreatic stones.
- Cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder causing mucus buildup in your lungs.
- Elevated blood calcium levels.
- Elevated triglyceride levels, known as hypertriglyceridemia.
What are the Symptoms of Chronic Pancreatitis?
In the early stages, you may not notice any symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:
- Pain in the upper abdomen.
- Diarrhea.
- Fatty stools.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Shortness of breath.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Excessive thirst and fatigue.
As the disease progresses, more severe symptoms may arise, such as:
- Jaundice, characterized by a yellowing of the eyes and skin.
- Internal bleeding.
- Bowel obstruction.
Painful episodes can last for hours or even days, and eating or drinking may worsen the pain. As chronic pancreatitis advances, the pain may become continuous.
How is Chronic Pancreatitis Diagnosed?
During the early stages of chronic pancreatitis, changes in the pancreas are challenging to observe in blood tests. Therefore, blood tests are not typically used for diagnosis. However, they can be used to determine pancreatic enzyme levels in the blood.
Your doctor may also request a stool sample to test for fat levels. Imaging tests are the optimal method for diagnosis and may include:
- X-rays.
- Ultrasound imaging.
- Computed tomography (CT) scans.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
- Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS).
What is the Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment?
The treatment of chronic pancreatitis focuses on relieving pain and improving digestive function. Treatment options include medications, endoscopic therapy, or surgery.
Medications for Chronic Pancreatitis:
- Pain relievers.
- Synthetic digestive enzymes if enzyme levels are extremely low.
- Insulin if you have diabetes due to pancreatitis.
- Immune modulators if you have autoimmune pancreatitis.
Endoscopy:
Some endoscopic treatments aim to alleviate pain and remove obstructions. During an endoscopic procedure, a flexible tube with an ultrasound probe is passed through your mouth. This allows your doctor to remove pancreatic stones, place small tubes called stents to improve flow, and close leaks.
Surgery:
If severe pain persists despite medication and endoscopic treatments, removing part of the pancreas might provide relief. Surgery can also be used to open the pancreatic duct or drain cysts if they are causing issues.
Tips during Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment:
- Avoid alcohol after being diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis.
- Quit smoking, as it may increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
- Limit fat intake in your diet and take vitamins.
Possible Complications of Chronic Pancreatitis:
One of the most common complications is malabsorption of nutrients due to insufficient production of digestive enzymes. As the pancreas fails to produce enough enzymes, your body may not absorb nutrients properly, leading to malnutrition.
The development of diabetes is another potential complication. Chronic pancreatitis can destroy cells that produce insulin and glucagon, hormones regulating blood sugar levels. This can result in elevated blood sugar levels.
Some individuals may also develop fluid-filled cysts inside or outside the pancreas. Cysts can be serious as they may obstruct crucial ducts and blood vessels.
Best Doctor for Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment
Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie is considered the best doctor for chronic pancreatitis treatment. He is a liver, digestive system, and endoscopy consultant, a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians in England, and a member of the American College of Gastroenterology. Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie is currently a lecturer in internal medicine, liver, and digestive system at Al-Azhar University’s Faculty of Medicine in Cairo.
Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie actively participates in various local and international scientific conferences and has numerous scientific research publications in prestigious medical journals.
Book your appointment now if you wish to consult Dr. Mohamed Al Boraie regarding chronic pancreatitis, its causes, symptoms, and the latest diagnostic and treatment methods.