Pancreatitis in St. Louis, MO
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Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a medical condition that occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed and is hindered from performing its essential role. A large gland in the abdominal region, the pancreas aids in digestion. This gland excretes powerful digestive enzymes into the small intestine to help digest food. The pancreas also excretes glucagon and insulin into the blood, which allows the body to regulate how it utilizes sugar for fuel.
This condition can occur in different forms. The acute type of pancreatitis is the sudden, short-term swelling of the pancreas. The majority of cases of acute pancreatitis resolve with the right kind of treatment. The chronic form of pancreatitis typically arises more gradually and can last for a longer period of time. Cases of chronic pancreatitis are often linked to heavy alcohol use.
Our gastroenterology specialists provide pancreatitis treatment in St. Louis, MO. If you or a family member may have pancreatitis, trusted care can be found through a Specialists in Gastroenterology location near you.
What causes pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis develops when digestive proteins called enzymes are generated prematurely and begin to inflame and attack the pancreas. The main causes of pancreatitis are included below:
- Gallstones
- Some medications
- Abdominal surgery
- Elevated triglyceride levels in the blood
- Autoimmune disease
- Infection
- Cystic fibrosis
- High calcium levels
- Abdominal injuries
- Trauma
- Metabolic disorders
- Alcohol use
- Smoking cigarettes
- Pancreatic cancer
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- Family history of pancreatitis
What are the common symptoms of pancreatitis?
Symptoms usually become noticeable once the pancreas begins to swell. The common signs and symptoms of pancreatitis are:
- Abdominal tenderness or swelling
- Elevated heart rate
- Upper abdominal pain that extends to the back, particularly after eating
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Odorous, oily stools
- Fever
How is pancreatitis treated?
Treatment plans for acute pancreatitis for St. Louis, MO patients commonly include fasting to rest their pancreas, IV fluids, and pain medications. If pancreatitis is more intense, then surgery may be necessary to remove the damaged or dead cell tissue if an infection develops. When acute pancreatitis is caused by gallstones, pancreatitis could be addressed with surgery to remove the gallbladder. Our seasoned Specialists in Gastroenterology providers can suggest the ideal approach to care.
Treatment methods for chronic pancreatitis treatment include:
- Stop drinking alcoholic beverages
- Pancreatic surgery
- Low-fat diet
- Avoid smoking
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestive function
- Diet modifications – usually low fat
- Procedures to remove bile duct obstructions
- Treatment for alcohol dependence
- Insulin
Pancreatitis FAQs
How can diet help avoid flare-ups of pancreatitis?
Diet plays a crucial role in managing pancreatitis and preventing flare-ups. A low-fat diet, particularly one that avoids saturated fats, is essential because high-fat foods can stimulate the pancreas to produce digestive enzymes, potentially worsening the condition. Eating small, frequent meals helps prevent overloading the pancreas. Additionally, incorporating easily digestible foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can support digestive health and reduce inflammation.
Can children get pancreatitis?
Although rare, children can develop pancreatitis. In children, pancreatitis can result from various factors, including abdominal trauma, certain medications, infections, congenital pancreatic abnormalities, or genetic predispositions. Symptoms in children are similar to those in adults, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzyme levels. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and ensure effective management of the condition.
What complications could arise with pancreatitis?
The type and severity of complications from pancreatitis depend on whether the condition is acute or chronic.
Most individuals with acute pancreatitis recover over time without long-term effects, and the majority experience a full recovery. However, some may develop fluid collections near the pancreas that might require medical drainage.
Chronic pancreatitis, however, often involves a longer recovery process and is associated with more persistent complications. These can include diabetes, weight loss, ongoing abdominal pain, and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. Effective management and regular medical follow-ups are essential to minimize these risks and manage symptoms.
Advanced techniques for pancreatic treatment
Should you or a loved one suffer from pancreatitis, it is important to get treatment from an experienced GI provider. Whether it involves an acute or chronic case of pancreatitis, the gastroenterologists at a Specialists in Gastroenterology location near you can help you get the personalized care you need. We are dedicated to delivering patient-centered compassion while upholding the highest standard of care. To meet with a gastroenterologist offering pancreatic care in St. Louis, MO, please reach out to one of our locations today.
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