How to get rid of pancreatitis: treatment strategies

How to get rid of pancreatitis: treatment strategies

Determination of pancreatitis and its types

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach in the abdominal cavity. The pancreas plays a key role in digestion, producing enzymes that break down food and hormones that regulate blood sugar. Inflammation of the pancreas can be caused by various factors, and there are two main types of pancreatitis: acute and chronic.

• Acute pancreatitis: This is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, which usually develops rapidly and can be quite serious. In most cases, acute pancreatitis takes place after a few days of treatment, but in some cases it can lead to complications that threaten life. The main causes of acute pancreatitis are gallstones and alcohol abuse. Other causes include abdominal injuries, certain drugs, infections and some metabolic disorders.

• Chronic pancreatitis: This is a prolonged inflammation of the pancreas, which gradually destroys the organ. Over time, chronic pancreatitis can lead to irreversible damage to the pancreas and impaired its functions. The most common cause of chronic pancreatitis is the prolonged abuse of alcohol. Other causes include genetic factors, autoimmune diseases, cystic fibrosis and obstruction of pancreatic ducts.

Symptoms of pancreatitis: recognition of signs

Symptoms of pancreatitis can vary depending on the type of pancreatitis and its severity. It is important to know the main symptoms in order to seek medical help in time.

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis:

• Strong pain in the upper abdomen: The pain usually begins suddenly and can radiate to the back. It can be constant and intense.
• Nausea and vomiting: Inflammation of the pancreas can cause nausea and vomiting.
• Hyproof temperature: Some people with acute pancreatitis may increase temperature.
• Rapid pulse: Inflammation and pain can lead to a rapid pulse.
• Bloating: The stomach can be swollen and painful to the touch.
• Jaundice: In some cases, jaundice manifested by yellowing of the skin and proteins of the eyes may develop.

Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis:

• Pain in the upper abdomen: The pain can be constant or periodic. It can be less intense than in acute pancreatitis, but can be exhausting.
• Weight loss: Chronic pancreatitis can lead to disturbance of digestion and malabsorption of nutrients, which leads to weight loss.
• Steatorrhea: This is the release of fat with a chair, which makes it pale, voluminous and unpleasantly smelling.
• Diabetes: Damage to the pancreas can lead to a violation of insulin production and the development of diabetes.
• Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can be less pronounced than in acute pancreatitis, but may be present.
• Weakness and fatigue: Digestion and malabsorption of nutrients can lead to weakness and fatigue.

Diagnosis of pancreatitis: Methods and procedures

Diagnosis of pancreatitis includes a physical examination, study of an anamnesis, laboratory tests and visualizing studies.

Laboratory tests:

• Blood test: Measure the levels of amylase and lipase, enzymes produced by the pancreas. The increased levels of these enzymes may indicate pancreatitis.
• Urine analysis: It can also be used to measure amylase levels.
• The analysis: It can be used to detect steatore, a sign of fat malabsorption.

Visualizing research:

• Ultrasound examination of the abdominal cavity: Uses sound waves to create images of the pancreas and other organs of the abdominal cavity. It can help identify bile stones that can cause pancreatitis.
• Computer tomography (CT) of the abdominal cavity: Creates detailed images of the pancreas and surrounding tissues. It can help identify inflammation, abscesses or other complications of pancreatitis.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the abdominal cavity: Uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create images of the pancreas. It may be useful for identifying changes in the ducts of the pancreas and detecting tumors.
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This is an invasive procedure in which the endoscope is introduced through the mouth into the duodenum. The dye is inserted into the ducts of the pancreas and bile ducts, and then x -rays are taken. ERCP can be used to detect obstruction in the ducts and to remove gallstones.
• Endoscopic ultrasound examination (Eusta): This is a procedure in which the ultrasonic sensor is attached to the endoscope and is inserted into the esophagus and stomach. Eusta can be used to obtain detailed images of the pancreas and surrounding tissues.

Treatment of acute pancreatitis: strategies and approaches

Treatment of acute pancreatitis usually includes hospitalization and supporting therapy. The purpose of treatment is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and prevent complications.

• Starvation: At the initial stage of treatment, the patient is usually forbidden to eat and drink to give a pancreas to rest. Nutrients are administered intravenously.
• Painkillers: Strong painkillers, such as opioids, can be necessary to relieve pain.
• Intravenous fluids: Intravenous fluids are administered to prevent dehydration.
• Oxygen therapy: If the patient has breathing problems, oxygen therapy may be required.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics can be prescribed if an infection develops.
• POWER: If the cause of acute pancreatitis is the gallstones, ERCP can be used to remove them.
• Surgical intervention: In rare cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove damaged pancreatic tissue or abscess drainage.

Treatment of chronic pancreatitis: integrated approach

Treatment of chronic pancreatitis is aimed at relieving pain, improving digestion and preventing complications.

• Painkillers: To relieve pain, various painkillers can be used, including non -steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids and other drugs.
• Enzyme drugs: Enzyme drugs containing pancreatic enzymes can be prescribed to improve digestion and reduce steatore.
• Diet: It is important to observe a low fat diet and a high protein content. Alcohol must be avoided.
• Insulin: If diabetes develops, insulin may be required.
• Surgical intervention: In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to relieve pain or improve digestion. Possible surgical procedures include:
  • Drainage of pancreatic ducts: If the pancreatic ducts are blocked, an operation can be performed for their drainage.
  • Pancreatic resection: In some cases, it may be necessary to remove part of the pancreas.
  • Pancreatic transplant: In rare cases, a pancreatic transplant can be performed.

Pancreatitis diet: what is possible and what is impossible

Diet plays an important role in the treatment of pancreatitis. It is important to observe a diet that will not overload the pancreas and will allow it to recover.

What can be eaten:

• Low -fat products: Chicken without skin, fish, tofu, beans, lentils.
• Fruits and vegetables: Most fruits and vegetables can be consumed in moderate quantities. Avoid fatty sauces and gas stations.
• Whole grains: Brown rice, oatmeal, whole grain bread.
• Low -fat dairy products: Skim milk, yogurt, cottage cheese.

That you can’t eat:

• Fat foods: Fried food, fast food, fatty meat, butter, margarine, vegetable oil.
• Alcohol: Alcohol should be completely avoided.
• Sweet products: Shipped drinks, sweets, cakes, cookies.
• Processed products: Processed products often contain a lot of fat, sugar and salt.
• Caffeine: Caffeine can stimulate the pancreas and aggravate the symptoms.

Alternative methods of treating pancreatitis: evidence and warnings

Some people turn to alternative methods for treating pancreatitis, such as herbs, additives and acupuncture. It is important to note that the scientific evidence of the effectiveness of these treatment methods is limited, and they should not be used instead of traditional treatment.

• Herbs: Some herbs, such as turmeric, ginger and milk thistle, have anti -inflammatory properties and can help alleviate the symptoms of pancreatitis. However, additional studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety.
• Supplements: Some additives, such as vitamins and minerals, can be useful for people with pancreatitis. For example, vitamin D can help improve digestion, and zinc can help strengthen the immune system. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any additives.
• Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese practice in which thin needles are inserted into certain points on the body. It is believed that acupuncture helps relieve pain and reduce inflammation. However, additional studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness in pancreatitis.

It is important to remember that alternative treatment methods should not be used instead of traditional treatment. If you consider the possibility of using alternative treatment methods, be sure to consult a doctor.

Pancreatitis Prevention: Precautions

Prevention of pancreatitis includes a change in lifestyle and treatment of the underlying diseases that can increase the risk of pancreatitis.

• Avoid alcohol abuse: Alcohol abuse is one of the main causes of pancreatitis. It is important to limit alcohol consumption or completely avoid it.
• Maintain healthy weight: Obesity can increase the risk of pancreatitis. It is important to maintain healthy weight with a healthy diet and regular physical exercises.
• Adhere to a healthy diet: A high fat diet and a low fiber content can increase the risk of pancreatitis. It is important to observe a healthy diet with a low fat content and a high fiber content.
• Treat the gallstones: Gallstones are one of the main causes of acute pancreatitis. If you have bile stones, consult a doctor to treat them.
• Avoid smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of pancreatitis. It is important to quit smoking.
• Visit the doctor regularly: Regular visits to a doctor can help identify and treat diseases that can increase the risk of pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis complications: possible consequences

Pancreatitis can lead to a number of complications, some of which can be serious and even life -threatening.

• Infection: An inflamed pancreas can become susceptible to infection. The infection can spread to other organs and cause sepsis, a life -threatening condition.
• Pseudo -vsists: Pseudocysts are clusters of fluid that can form in the pancreas or around it. Pseudocysts can cause pain, nausea and vomiting. In some cases, they can burst and cause bleeding or infection.
• Violation of the function of the pancreas: Chronic pancreatitis can lead to irreversible damage to the pancreas and impaired its functions. This can lead to digestion, diabetes and other health problems.
• Pancreatic cancer: Chronic pancreatitis increases the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Life with pancreatitis: adaptation and support

Life with pancreatitis can be complex, but with the right treatment and support, the quality of life can be improved.

• Follow the doctor’s recommendations: It is important to comply with all the doctor’s recommendations, including medication, compliance with a diet and regular visits to a doctor.
• Join the support group: Support groups can provide valuable support and information for people with pancreatitis.
• Manage stress: Stress can aggravate the symptoms of pancreatitis. It is important to find stress control methods such as yoga, meditation or other relaxing classes.
• Seek psychological help: A chronic disease, such as pancreatitis, can lead to depression and anxiety. It is important to seek psychological help if you experience these symptoms.

Conclusion

Pancreatitis is a serious disease that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. Compliance with the doctor’s recommendations, proper nutrition and a healthy lifestyle will help alleviate the symptoms, prevent complications and improve the quality of life.