Pancreatitis

If upper abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting continue, worsening over time, you may be suffering from pancreatitis. Experience personalized care for pancreatitis at Peak Gastroenterology Associates, where we provide advanced treatments and compassionate, patient-focused care. The GI specialists at Peak Gastroenterology Associates can diagnose and treat your condition to prevent serious complications. We invite you to schedule an appointment with Peak Gastroenterology Associates at one of our convenient locations in Colorado Springs, Denver, or Lone Tree. You can schedule an appointment over the phone or online.

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What Is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, an organ behind the stomach that plays an essential role in digestion and regulating blood sugar. The condition can occur as acute pancreatitis, which appears suddenly and lasts for days, or chronic pancreatitis, a long-standing inflammation that can deteriorate over time.

What Causes Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is primarily caused by:

Gallstones

These can block the bile duct, affecting pancreatic enzymes.

Alcohol Abuse

Heavy alcohol consumption is a common cause of both acute and chronic pancreatitis.

Genetic Factors

Certain genetic mutations can predispose individuals to pancreatitis.

Medications

Some medications can induce pancreatitis as a side effect.

Abdominal Surgery or Trauma

These can directly damage the pancreas or disrupt its function.

Other Medical Conditions

Including cystic fibrosis, high triglyceride levels, or autoimmune disorders.

What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms of pancreatitis may vary depending on whether it is acute or chronic but generally include:

Severe abdominal pain radiating to the back and worsening after eating.
Nausea and vomiting.
Fever and a rapid pulse.
Swollen and tender abdomen.
Weight loss and oily stools (more common in chronic pancreatitis).

How Is Pancreatitis Treated?

Treatment for pancreatitis aims to reduce symptoms, manage pain, and address the underlying cause:

Hospitalization: Acute cases may require hospital treatment to stabilize the condition.
Pain Management: Strong pain relievers may be needed to control the pain associated with pancreatitis.
IV Fluids: To maintain hydration and electrolyte levels.
Dietary Management: This may include fasting to rest the pancreas, followed by a low-fat diet to reduce pancreatic stimulation.
Enzyme Supplements: These supplements aid digestion if the pancreas is not secreting enough enzymes.
Surgery: To remove blockages or damaged tissue.

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Why Choose Us?

At Peak Gastroenterology Associates, our board-certified GI specialists can diagnose and treat pancreatitis, focusing on minimizing discomfort and enhancing well-being. We are proud to be leaders in the field of gastroenterology, using the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment protocols to ensure comprehensive care. Our multidisciplinary approach includes support from dietitians and pain management specialists to provide holistic treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Pancreatitis FAQ

What is pancreatitis?

Your pancreas is a gland near your stomach and small intestine that secretes special juices to aid digestion. It also releases glucagon and insulin into your bloodstream. If you have pancreatitis, your pancreas becomes inflamed, which can lead to severe complications if it’s left untreated. Pancreatitis may be acute, subside within a few days, or be long-lasting.

What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?

If you have pancreatitis, you might experience one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

Abdominal tenderness
Upper abdominal pain
Radiating abdominal pain
Fever
Pain after eating
Nausea and vomiting
Rapid pulse
Unintentional weight loss
Smelly, oily stools

Untreated pancreatitis puts you at risk for infection, cysts, kidney failure, diabetes, breathing problems, malnutrition, or cancer.

What are the risk factors for pancreatitis?

While anybody can develop pancreatitis, the following factors increase your risk of experiencing it:

Pancreatic cancer
Prior abdominal injury or surgery
Some medicines
Alcoholism
Gallstones
Cystic fibrosis
High calcium or triglyceride levels
Obesity
Smoking
Family history of pancreatitis

Maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, avoiding excessive alcohol, and adopting other healthy lifestyle habits can lower your risk of developing pancreatitis.

How is pancreatitis diagnosed?

Your GI doctor will evaluate your symptoms and review your medical history to diagnose pancreatitis. They complete a physical exam and may use blood, stool, and imaging tests, including CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds.

What is the treatment for pancreatitis?

Your personalized pancreatitis treatment plan depends on the type and severity of your condition. Your Peak Gastroenterology Associates provider might suggest:

Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes can reduce damage to your pancreas. Examples include not smoking or drinking, fasting, eating a well-balanced diet low in fat, and drinking more fluids. If you struggle to avoid alcohol, your doctor can refer you to a treatment program in your area.
Medications and supplements: Taking pain relief or enzyme supplements for improved digestion are additional options for pancreatitis treatment. Your doctor may recommend IV fluids or nutritional supplements, too.
Surgical procedures: Undergoing a surgical procedure can help you better manage pancreatitis and experience symptom relief. Your gastroenterologist might surgically repair bile duct obstruction, remove your gallbladder, drain pancreatic fluid, or remove diseased tissue.

Don’t live with unpleasant pancreatitis symptoms or let the disease progress to severe complications. Schedule an appointment with Peak Gastroenterology Associates over the phone or online today.