Pancreatitis Treatment in Chicago, IL

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. It is generally identified by abdominal pain, indigestion, and fever. Pancreatitis can be categorized into one of three categories:

Types of Pancreatitis

HEREDITARY PANCREATITIS

Pancreatic disease is linked to genetics. Thus, it is important to stay up to date on your health if anyone in your family has pancreatic disease. If you do have hereditary pancreatitis, you may experience flare ups at any age.

ACUTE PANCREATITIS

Acute pancreatitis is a single occurrence (or multiple, infrequent occurrences) of an inflammation of the pancreas. This can be caused by trauma, drinking too much alcohol, medication, or another disease. Acute pancreatitis is still to be taken seriously and can result in anything from general pain to death. It can also damage other organs. Getting the proper treatment immediately is very important.

CHRONIC PANCREATITIS

Usually afflicting middle-aged men, chronic pancreatitis has similar symptoms to acute pancreatitis. However, the attacks will happen more often, and last longer. Generally, this disease is caused by alcohol consumption. Over-consumption of alcohol can cause inflammation of the pancreas, resulting in possible permanent damage.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis

The main symptom of pancreatitis is mild or severe upper abdominal pain which can develop suddenly, or gradually. Other symptoms that may occur are the following:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Lower back pain
• Pain that becomes worse after eating
• Fever and chills
• Weakness

Pancreatitis Treatment

Pancreatitis is often treated by fluids and pain medication. If it severe enough, a patient may be admitted into an ICU to be monitored closely. Chronic pancreatitis has to be treated with nutrition therapy and possibly insulin. Acute pancreatitis typically does not require further treatment if the attack is mild, in severe cases, the patient will likely be admitted to intensive care to prevent any infection from developing, breathing assistance and in some cases surgery. After an acute pancreatitis attack, it is advised that the patient avoid solid foods while the pancreas repairs itself. Painkillers and IV fluids will be administered in the hospital. If the acute attack is caused by gallstones, this may require surgery to remove the gallbladder.