Pancreatitis in Lubbock, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a condition that develops when the pancreas becomes inflamed and is inhibited from conducting its essential role. The pancreas is a large gland located in the abdominal region that aids in the digestive process. The gland emits potent digestive proteins called enzymes into the small bowel to help process food. It also releases insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream. These two hormones help the body to manage the way it converts sugar for energy.
There are different types of pancreatitis. The acute type of pancreatitis involves the sudden, short-term swelling of the pancreas. Often, acute pancreatitis fully resolves with the proper care. The chronic form of pancreatitis typically arises on a more gradual basis and can last longer. Cases of chronic pancreatitis are usually related to heavy alcohol use.
Our board-certified gastroenterologists are proud to offer pancreatitis treatment in Lubbock, TX. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with pancreatitis, trusted treatment can be found at a Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates location in your community.
What are the causes of pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis develops when the digestive proteins called enzymes generate prematurely and begin to attack and inflame the pancreas. The primary causes of pancreatitis include:
- Autoimmune conditions
- Cigarette smoking
- Metabolic disorders
- High calcium levels
- Trauma
- Pancreatic cancer
- Abdominal injuries
- Some medications
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- Infection
- Cystic fibrosis
- High amounts of triglyceride in the blood
- Gallstones
- Alcohol use
- Abdominal surgery
What are the most common symptoms of pancreatitis?
Several symptoms can present when the pancreas becomes swollen. Common signs and symptoms of pancreatitis can include:
- Elevated heart rate
- The abdomen is swollen or tender to the touch
- Upper abdominal pain
- Smelly, oily stools
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the upper abdomen that extends to the back, particularly after eating
Our Lubbock, TX providers regularly identify symptoms of pancreatitis. Trust us to partner with you to find the best treatment options available to you.
How is pancreatitis treated?
Treatment methods for acute pancreatitis often entail intravenous (IV) fluids, fasting to rest the pancreas, and pain medications. When pancreatitis is severe enough, surgery might be necessary to remove the damaged or necrotic tissue if an infection occurs. When acute pancreatitis is caused by gallstones, the condition could be addressed by surgical removal of the gallbladder. Our knowledgeable team at your nearest Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates location can recommend the best approach for treatment.
Treatment for chronic pancreatitis might encompass:
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestive processes
- Pancreatic surgery
- A diet low in fat
- Avoid alcohol consumption
- Treatment for alcohol addiction
- Avoid smoking
- Insulin use
- Procedures to treat biliary blockages
- Dietary changes – usually low fat
Pancreatitis FAQs
How can diet help avoid flare-ups of pancreatitis?
Managing pancreatitis typically requires dietary modifications to lessen the burden on the pancreas and avoid exacerbating the condition. A diet low in fats, especially saturated fats, is essential since high-fat foods can provoke the pancreas into releasing digestive enzymes, which may worsen symptoms. Consuming small, frequent meals can be beneficial, as it prevents overloading the pancreas. Moreover, including foods that are easy to digest and high in antioxidants, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can help maintain overall digestive health and minimize inflammation.
Can children get pancreatitis?
Although it is uncommon, pancreatitis can occur in children. The causes of pancreatitis in this age group can vary, including abdominal trauma, specific medications, infections, congenital abnormalities in the pancreatic structure, or genetic predispositions. The symptoms in children are similar to those in adults and may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzymes. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of pancreatitis in children are essential to prevent potential complications and ensure proper management of the condition.
What complications could arise with pancreatitis?
The severity of complications from pancreatitis varies depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic.
In cases of acute pancreatitis, most individuals recover over time without long-lasting effects. The majority of patients make a full recovery, although a small percentage may develop fluid collections around the pancreas that require medical drainage.
Conversely, chronic pancreatitis often resolves more slowly and usually after multiple episodes. This form of the condition is more likely to lead to persistent complications, such as diabetes, weight loss, continuous pain, and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
Trusted care for pancreatitis
If you or someone you love suffer from pancreatitis, it is crucial to receive care from an experienced GI provider. Regardless of whether your pancreatitis is acute or chronic, the GI specialists at a Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates location near you can provide the personalized care you seek. We are devoted to delivering compassionate care while adhering to the highest clinical standards. To partner with a gastrointestinal provider offering pancreatic care in Lubbock, TX, please reach out to our team today.
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