Pancreatitis in Texas
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Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a medical condition that occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed and swollen and is prevented from performing its normal role. A large gland in the abdominal region, the pancreas facilitates digestion. This gland emits potent digestive substances called enzymes into the small intestine to help process food. It also excretes insulin and glucagon into the blood. These two hormones help the body to regulate the manner in which it metabolizes glucose for energy.
This condition might arise in different forms. The acute type of pancreatitis describes the sudden, brief swelling of the pancreas. In most cases, acute pancreatitis completely resolves with the right type of care. The chronic form of pancreatitis commonly develops slowly and can last much longer. Instances of chronic pancreatitis are typically connected to heavy alcohol use.
Our board-certified gastroenterology physicians offer pancreatitis treatment in Texas. If you or someone you love has pancreatitis, expert care can be received at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants. To speak with a provider, request a consultation at a location near you today.
What are the causes of pancreatitis?
The condition of pancreatitis occurs when the digestive proteins (called enzymes) mentioned above activate prematurely and begin to inflame and attack the pancreas. The main causes of pancreatitis include:
- Certain medications
- Trauma or injury
- Gallstones
- Abdominal injuries
- Metabolic disorders
- Cystic fibrosis
- Abdominal surgery
- Cigarette smoking
- Autoimmune conditions
- Alcohol consumption
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- High triglyceride levels in the blood
- Elevated amounts of calcium
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Pancreatic cancer
- Infection
What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?
Symptoms may occur when the pancreas becomes inflamed. The common signs and symptoms of pancreatitis are included below:
- Upper abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Oily, odorous stools
- Abdominal tenderness or swelling
- Upper abdominal pain that radiates to the back, particularly after eating
- Increased heart rate
- Fever
If you notice these symptoms or need treatment for pancreatitis in Texas, we urge you to get in touch with our gastroenterology team without delay.
What are the treatments for pancreatitis?
Treatment approaches for acute pancreatitis typically include intravenous (IV) fluids, fasting to rest the pancreas, and pain medications. If pancreatitis is severe enough, then surgery may be recommended to clear away the dead or damaged cell tissue if an infection emerges. When acute pancreatitis arises due to gallstones, the condition might be addressed by removing the gallbladder. Our skilled providers at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants can determine the most favorable treatment approach.
Treatment approaches for chronic pancreatitis may consist of:
- Stop smoking
- Stop drinking alcohol
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestion
- Pancreas surgery
- Insulin
- Diet modifications – typically low fat
- Treatment for alcoholism
- Procedures to address biliary obstructions
- Low-fat diet
Pancreatitis FAQs
How can diet help manage pancreatitis?
Diet plays a pivotal role in managing pancreatitis by minimizing stress on the pancreas and helping to prevent flare-ups. A low-fat diet is essential, as high-fat foods can prompt the pancreas to produce excess digestive enzymes, which might exacerbate the condition. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can also alleviate pressure on the pancreas by spreading out digestive demands. Furthermore, consuming foods that are easy to digest and high in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can enhance digestive health and decrease inflammation.
Can pancreatitis occur in children?
Although it is uncommon, children can indeed develop pancreatitis. Various factors might contribute to pancreatitis in children, including abdominal injuries, specific medications, infections, congenital structural abnormalities of the pancreas, or hereditary influences. The symptoms in children are similar to those in adults, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and raised levels of pancreatic enzymes. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent serious complications in children with pancreatitis.
What are the possible complications of pancreatitis?
The complications associated with pancreatitis vary depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic.
In cases of acute pancreatitis, most individuals recover completely over time without lasting effects. While the majority of patients recover fully, some may develop fluid collections around the pancreas, which could require medical intervention to drain.
Chronic pancreatitis, however, may take longer to resolve and often follows multiple episodes. This form of pancreatitis is more likely to lead to ongoing complications, such as diabetes, significant weight loss, persistent pain, and an increased risk of developing pancreatic cancer.
The experts in pancreatic care
If you or a loved one experiences pancreatitis, it is important to seek care from an experienced gastroenterologist. Whether it is acute or chronic pancreatitis, the GI specialists at Texas Digestive Disease Consultants can offer the professional care you seek. We are committed to serving with patient-focused compassion while following the greatest clinical standards. To consult a gastroenterologist offering pancreatic treatment in Texas, request a consultation at a location near you today.
Reviews
Dr. George was very interested in my problem. He ask lots of questions regarding my overall health and of course my recent problems with pancreatitis. He had studied the referral documents and asked specific questions. I really enjoyed the fact that he was not in a hurry but took all the necessary time to discuss my symptoms.
The best doctor who has treated and save my dad when he had a severe pancreatitis. He is now treating my mom and myself and I highly recommend him he is the best gastroenterologist.
I jave had several injections and stints. Dr Raijman is the only doctor I would recommend for pancreatitis.
Dr George is excellent. Very thorough and listens to what you have to say. Have been seeing him for a number of years for chronic pancreatitis ( which was previously misdiagnosed by another GI Doc). Would recommend him whole heartedly.
Dr Dave has an excellent bedside manner. He is a wonderful person and exceptional gastroenterologist. I feel he saved my life after he diagnosed my condition as having accute pancreatitis more than 10 years ago. It took 6 weeks before my weekly blood panels returned to normal. Several years later my wife & I retired & moved to Kemah to go sailing and while cruising in the gulf I came down with a stomach and intestine condition that two gastroenterologist doctors in Houston could not determine what it was. I would recommend Dr. Dave to anyone with a gastrointestinal problem.
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