What is chronic pancreatitis

Most people know that the most common cause of chronic pancreatitis is an excessive consumption of alcohol for a long period of time. Apart from this cause, there are some other causes like too much calcium in the blood, anatomy abnormalities which are present at birth in most cases, cystic fibrosis and high blood fats. The usage of certain drugs can also cause pancreatitis but these cases are quite rare. Idiopathic pancreatitis is also possible. In this case, there is no specific cause of the disease that can be identified.

Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis

People should know that there are various symptoms of this disease. The most common symptom is pain. It can occur in any stage of the disease, however. The intensity of the pain is not always the same as well. A lot of people find that crouching forward is a good way to relieve the pain. The pain usually gets worse during the night.

There are also various types of pain. It can be gnawing, stabbing, aching and burning. However, the pain will always be present and it will not come and go. This type of pain is similar that felt when a person is suffering from gallstones, irritable bowel syndrome, angina pectoris or peptic ulcer.

Diabetes is known to be one of the symptoms of chronic pancreatitis. A person who lacks insulin will suffer from diabetes. Diarrhea is another common symptom of chronic pancreatitis. However, the problem is that diarrhea is a symptom of several other diseases as well. Almost all people who suffer from chronic pancreatitis experience weight loss. The main reason why that is so, is because people cannot absorb the calories from the food properly. Another problem is that people are afraid to eat since it causes pain. Jaundice is present in almost 30% of all people who suffer from chronic pancreatitis. Vomiting after a meal is not that common but it may happen to some people.

Treatment

People need to know that there is no known cure for this illness. This is why prevention is very important.

Preventing the symptoms worsening

A person who is diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis must not consume alcohol any more. In cases of an underlying cause, the plan is to treat that cause. People need to intake pancreatic supplements like Creon along with the drugs which will reduce acid secretion in the stomach. Going on a low-fat diet helps as well. In some cases, surgery is an option as well.