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Pancreatitis
The pancreas is an organ in the abdomen which produces enzymes that aid in digestion. It also produces insulin, an essential hormone necessary for regulating blood sugar. Inflammation of the pancreas is known as pancreatitis. Pancreatitis can occur secondarily to alcohol abuse (the most common cause), gallstones, drug side effects (sulfa drugs), or unknown causes. Pancreatitis tends to be a RECURRENT problem, particularly in those who suffer from alcohol induced pancreatitis. Common symptoms include: central, upper abdominal pain [that may radiate to the back], nausea, vomiting, and fever in more serious cases. Patients can quickly become dehydrated and feel faint upon standing. Evaluation will include history and physical examination. Blood tests (i.e. amylase, blood counts, chemistry and liver profile) and abdominal x-rays [which may reveal gallstones or intestinal blockage] will be performed in most cases. Gallbladder ultrasound can effectively exclude the presence of gallstones [which may be causative]. CT-scanning of the abdomen has been used in cases of severe, or recurrent pancreatitis, which can reveal the presence of pancreatic cysts (hollow collections of fluid within the pancreas) that can become infected and require surgical drainage.
Treatment involves the administration of IV fluids and pain medications. More serious cases, with associated fever, gallbladder disease, protracted vomiting, or dehydration, will require hospitalization for treatment. Mild cases may be treated at home with oral pain medications and a clear liquid diet (e.g. juices,water, Gatorade) until symptoms resolve. Strict AVOIDANCE of all beverages containing alcohol will be emphasized. Bedrest and antacids will also be part of the recommendations. The patient willbe advised to AVOID caffeine and spicy foods. Your Internist or General Practitioner can help you with this problem.
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