Pancreatitis in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis develops when the pancreas becomes inflamed and swollen and is hindered from conducting its critical jobs. A large gland, the pancreas, aids in digestion. It releases powerful digestive proteins called enzymes into the small intestine to help digest food. The pancreas also releases glucagon and insulin into the blood circulatory system. These two hormones permit the body to manage the manner in which it utilizes glucose for fuel.
Pancreatitis can be diagnosed in a couple of different forms. The acute type of pancreatitis is characterized by the abrupt, short-term inflammation of the pancreas. Often, acute pancreatitis completely resolves with the right form of care. The chronic form of pancreatitis typically develops slowly and may last much longer. Instances of chronic pancreatitis are generally linked to heavy alcohol use.
Our board-certified gastroenterology physicians proudly offer pancreatitis treatment in Indianapolis, IN. If you or someone you love is experiencing pancreatitis, skilled treatment is available at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
What causes pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis develops when the digestive enzymes mentioned above are generated too early and begin to inflame and attack the pancreas. The main causes of pancreatitis involve:
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Alcohol intake
- Gallstones
- Some medications
- Trauma
- Metabolic conditions
- Autoimmune disease
- Cystic fibrosis
- Cigarette use
- Elevated amounts of calcium
- Abdominal injuries
- Infection
- Abdominal surgery
- Pancreatic cancer
- High triglyceride levels in the blood
What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?
A range of symptoms might develop if the pancreas becomes swollen. The common symptoms and signs of pancreatitis involve:
- Upper abdominal pain that extends to the back, especially after eating
- Abdominal swelling or tenderness
- Fever
- Increased heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Oily, odorous stools
- Upper abdominal pain
If you have these symptoms or are seeking pancreatitis treatment in Indianapolis, IN, we urge you to contact our GI facility promptly.
What are the treatments for pancreatitis?
Treatment for acute pancreatitis generally entails pain medications, IV fluids, and fasting to rest the pancreas. If pancreatitis is advanced enough, a surgical procedure may be required to remove the damaged or necrotic areas if an infection occurs. If acute pancreatitis is due to gallstones, it could be treated by removing the gallbladder. Our expert providers at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology can recommend the best treatment option.
Treatment methods for chronic pancreatitis treatment may encompass:
- A diet low in fat
- Insulin
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestive function
- Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages
- Treatment for alcohol dependence
- Adjusted diet – typically low fat
- Procedures to remove biliary blockages
- Stop smoking
- Pancreas surgery
Pancreatitis FAQs
How can diet help avoid flare-ups of pancreatitis?
Managing pancreatitis typically requires dietary modifications to ease the workload on the pancreas and avoid exacerbations. It's essential to maintain a low-fat diet, especially limiting saturated fats, as fatty foods can prompt the pancreas to produce digestive enzymes, which might worsen the condition. Choosing to eat small, frequent meals can aid in preventing the pancreas from becoming overwhelmed. Moreover, including foods that are easy to digest and high in antioxidants, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can enhance digestive health and help minimize inflammation.
Can children get pancreatitis?
Although uncommon, pancreatitis can occur in children. This condition in young patients can stem from a variety of factors such as abdominal trauma, specific medications, infections, structural anomalies of the pancreas present from birth, or genetic predispositions. The symptoms often resemble those experienced by adults, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and increased levels of pancreatic enzymes. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of pancreatitis in children are vital to prevent further complications.
What complications can arise with pancreatitis?
The severity of complications varies based on the type of pancreatitis.
In cases of acute pancreatitis, most people recover fully over time without lasting effects. While many patients achieve complete recovery, a small number may form fluid collections around the pancreas, requiring medical drainage.
Conversely, chronic pancreatitis might eventually resolve, but it usually takes a longer time and follows multiple episodes. This form of pancreatitis is more prone to ongoing complications, including diabetes, weight loss, persistent pain, and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
Specialists in pancreatic treatment
Should you or a member of your family suffer from pancreatitis, it is important to seek care from an experienced gastroenterologist. Whether your pancreatitis is acute or chronic, the GI experts at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology can offer the professional care you seek. We are dedicated to providing patient-centric compassion while following the highest standard of clinical care. To consult with a gastrointestinal specialist offering pancreatic care in Indianapolis, IN, please reach out to our team today.
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