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
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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