Understanding Pancreatitis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment

Understanding Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, a vital organ located behind the stomach that releases enzymes to aid in digestion. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, it can cause serious health complications. One potential cause of pancreatitis is excessive alcohol consumption, sometimes referred to as "getting smashed."

What is the Pancreas?

The pancreas is an oblong organ that sits tucked behind the stomach in the upper abdomen. It serves two essential functions:

• It produces enzymes that help break down fats, proteins, and carbs during the digestive process.
• It releases insulin and other hormones that regulate blood sugar levels.

Pancreatitis Causes and Risk Factors

There are two main types of pancreatitis:

• Acute Pancreatitis - Develops suddenly and lasts for a short period, usually a few days. The most common causes are gallstones, alcohol abuse, infections, trauma, and certain medications.
• Chronic Pancreatitis - Ongoing inflammation that progressively damages the pancreas. Often caused by excessive, long-term alcohol use.

Drinking substantial amounts of alcohol is a major risk factor. Even a single night of heavy "getting smashed" drinking can trigger an acute attack of pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of pancreatitis include:

• Severe upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever, rapid pulse, and dehydration
• Diarrhea or oily stools
• Bloating and abdominal tenderness

In severe cases, pancreatitis can cause bleeding, infection, cysts, breathing problems, kidney failure, low blood pressure, and other complications.

Diagnosing Pancreatitis

If pancreatitis is suspected, the doctor will ask about symptoms, medical history, and alcohol consumption habits. Diagnostic tests may include:

Blood Tests

Blood is analyzed for high levels of pancreatic enzymes, which leak out from the inflamed pancreas. Liver function tests may also be ordered.

Imaging Tests

• Abdominal ultrasound - Uses sound waves to examine the pancreas and look for gallstones.
• Computerized tomography (CT) scan - Takes cross-sectional X-rays to visualize swelling and damage.
• Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) - MRI scan that images the bile and pancreatic ducts.

Endoscopic Procedures

A flexible tube with a tiny camera may be guided down the throat into the small intestines to examine the pancreas and bile ducts for blockages.

Treating Acute Pancreatitis

Treatment focuses on managing pain, restoring fluids, preventing complications, and addressing any underlying causes. It typically involves:

Pain Relief

Strong pain medications and IV fluids provide relief and prevent dehydration and shock. Patients are not allowed to eat or drink at first.

Addressing Underlying Causes

If gallstones are causing the pancreatitis, they may need to be removed surgically. Patients with alcohol-induced pancreatitis must stop drinking completely.

Treatment of Complications

If pancreatitis leads to cysts, infections, or other issues, additional treatments may be needed such as antibiotics, endoscopic drainage, or surgery. Nutritional therapy may be required if pancreatic damage impairs digestion.

Preventing Pancreatitis

While the pancreas is very sensitive organ, there are some things you can do to lower your risk:

• Limit alcohol intake, avoid binge and chronic heavy drinking
• Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
• Drink lots of fluids
• Don't smoke
• Take medications wisely under a doctors supervision

Getting regular screening for gallstones or other abdominal problems may help detect early warnings signs before pancreatitis develops. If alcohol abuse is an issue, getting into a treatment program is strongly advised.

Pancreatitis Prognosis

The prognosis depends on how early it is diagnosed and treated. While attacks are usually mild and temporary, recurring episodes of acute pancreatitis can permanently damage this vital organ over time. This is what leads to chronic pancreatitis along with complications like calcifications, cysts, infections, and loss of pancreatic function.

Around 75% of patients recover fully after a single acute attack with proper care. But severe cases can sometimes be life-threatening. Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive disease without a current cure.

Living with Pancreatitis

Making healthy lifestyle adjustments can keep pancreatitis under control:

• Follow dietary guidelines - eat small, frequent low-fat meals
• Take prescribed digestive enzymes
• Abstain from smoking and alcohol
• Reduce stress levels
• Exercise moderately as able

Some patients need to make more adaptations such as avoiding certain pain triggers, supplements to improve nutrition, medication to regulate blood sugar, or even surgery if attacks persist. Working closely with your medical team and following care instructions can help prevent complications from pancreatitis and achieve the best possible quality of life. Support groups can also provide great coping assistance.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.