Pancreatitis in Washington
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Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a condition that develops when the pancreas becomes inflamed and is restricted from performing its essential functions. The pancreas is a large gland in the abdomen that assists in digestion. The pancreas releases powerful digestive proteins call enzymes into the small bowel to help digest food. It also releases glucagon and insulin into the blood. These two hormones permit the body to regulate how it utilizes glucose for fuel.
Pancreatitis can occur in varying forms. Acute pancreatitis involves the abrupt, short-term inflammation of the pancreas. Most cases of acute pancreatitis resolve with the right kind of treatment. Chronic pancreatitis usually arises more gradually and may last for an extended period. Cases of chronic pancreatitis are generally connected to heavy alcohol consumption.
Our board-certified gastroenterology specialists offer pancreatitis treatment in Washington. If you or someone you love may have pancreatitis, experienced help is available through Washington Gastroenterology.
What causes pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis develops when the digestive substances called enzymes discussed above are generated too early and begin to attack and aggravate the pancreas. The primary causes of pancreatitis involve:
- Trauma or injury
- Alcohol consumption
- Abdominal injuries
- Metabolic conditions
- Cystic fibrosis
- Some medications
- Infection
- Pancreatic cancer
- High amounts of triglyceride in the blood
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Cigarette use
- Gallstones
- Abdominal surgery
- Autoimmune disease
- High amounts of calcium
- Overactive parathyroid gland
What are common symptoms of pancreatitis?
Symptoms may occur when the pancreas becomes swollen. The common signs and symptoms of pancreatitis are listed below:
- Fever
- The abdomen is tender to the touch or swollen
- Increased heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the upper abdomen that extends to your back, especially after eating
- Oily, smelly stools
- Upper abdominal pain
Should you have these symptoms or are seeking pancreatitis treatment in Washington, please promptly reach out to a nearby GI location in your community.
What are the treatments for pancreatitis?
Treatment approaches for acute pancreatitis typically include 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 dead areas if an infection occurs. If acute cases of pancreatitis result from gallstones, pancreatitis could be addressed with a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. Our knowledgeable providers at Washington Gastroenterology can suggest the best treatment option.
Treatment for chronic pancreatitis involves:
- Insulin
- A diet low in fat
- Stop drinking alcohol
- Procedures to address bile duct blockages
- Adjusted diet – typically low fat
- Treatment for alcohol dependence
- Stop smoking
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestive processes
- Pancreas surgery
Specialists in pancreatic care
Should you or a loved one experience pancreatitis, it is essential to receive care from an experienced gastrointestinal provider. Regardless of whether your pancreatitis is acute or chronic, the GI specialists at Washington Gastroenterology can provide the professional care you need. We are devoted to delivering patient-centered compassion while maintaining the greatest standard of care. To partner with a local gastroenterologist offering pancreatic care in Washington, please contact our team today.
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