Pancreatitis in Houston, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a condition that develops when your pancreas becomes inflamed and is hindered from performing its normal functions. A large gland in the abdominal region, the pancreas assists with the digestive process. This gland excretes potent digestive proteins called enzymes into the small bowel to help digest food and it also releases the hormones glucagon and insulin into the bloodstream. These two hormones help the body to control the manner in which it metabolizes sugar for energy.
Pancreatitis might occur in varying forms. The acute form of pancreatitis is characterized by the sudden, brief inflammation of the pancreas. In most cases, acute pancreatitis completely resolves with proper treatment. The chronic form of pancreatitis generally arises more gradually and can be longer-term. Instances of chronic pancreatitis are usually connected to heavy alcohol use.
Our gastroenterology physicians are proud to offer pancreatitis treatment in Houston, TX. If you or a family member has pancreatitis, expert help can be received through Gastroenterology Consultants.
What causes pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis happens when the digestive enzymes of the pancreas are activated before they're needed and start to attack and inflame the organ. The leading causes of pancreatitis are:
- Certain medications
- Cigarette use
- Trauma or injury
- Metabolic conditions
- Abdominal surgery
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Alcohol intake
- Elevated amounts of calcium
- Cystic fibrosis
- Gallstones
- Abdominal injuries
- Pancreatic cancer
- Elevated triglyceride levels in the blood
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- Infection
- Autoimmune conditions
What are the main symptoms of pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis may be responsible for a number of uncomfortable symptoms. The main signs and symptoms of pancreatitis can include:
- Odorous, oily stools
- Fever
- Abdominal swelling or tenderness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Elevated heart rate
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Upper abdominal pain that extends to your back, particularly after eating
If you experience these symptoms or are seeking medical care for pancreatitis in Houston, TX, we urge you to get in touch with our GI facility without delay.
How is pancreatitis treated?
Acute pancreatitis is commonly treated with one or a combination of the following: IV fluids, medications to combat pain, and fasting to rest the pancreas. When pancreatitis is more intense, surgery might be necessary to extract the damaged or dead cell tissue if an infection emerges. When acute pancreatitis results from gallstones, it might be treated with a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. Our expert practitioners at Gastroenterology Consultants can suggest the best option for care.
Chronic pancreatitis treatment may include:
- Pancreatic surgery
- A diet low in fat
- Treatment for alcohol addition
- Dietary changes — usually low fat
- Avoid alcohol consumption
- Procedures to address bile duct blockages
- Smoking cessation
- Insulin
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestive function
Pancreatitis FAQs
How does diet influence pancreatitis flare-ups?
Addressing pancreatitis often involves dietary adjustments to mitigate strain on the pancreas and deter flare-ups. Embracing a diet low in fats, especially saturated fats, proves vital as high-fat meals can trigger the pancreas to release digestive enzymes, potentially worsening the condition. Opting for frequent, small meals helps prevent overloading the pancreas. Moreover, integrating antioxidant-rich, easily digestible foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains promotes digestive health and diminishes inflammation.
Is pancreatitis a condition children can develop?
Though uncommon, children can indeed develop pancreatitis. Various factors may contribute to pancreatitis in children, including abdominal trauma, specific medications, infections, congenital pancreatic abnormalities, or genetic predispositions. Symptoms may parallel those in adults, such as abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, and heightened pancreatic enzyme levels. Swift diagnosis and treatment are pivotal in managing pancreatitis in children to avert potential complications.
What potential complications accompany pancreatitis?
The nature and severity of complications depend on the type of pancreatitis experienced.
For acute pancreatitis, most individuals witness improvement over time without lasting repercussions. While the majority achieve full recovery, a minority may encounter fluid accumulations near the pancreas, necessitating medical drainage.
Conversely, chronic pancreatitis may resolve over time, although typically, it occurs after multiple episodes. This process tends to be protracted and may entail enduring complications such as diabetes, weight loss, persistent pain, and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
Specialists in pancreatic treatment
If you or a member of your family is struggling to handle the symptoms of pancreatitis, then it's important to partner with a skilled GI physician for care. Regardless of whether your pancreatitis is acute or chronic, the GI experts at Gastroenterology Consultants can deliver the individualized care you need. We are devoted to delivering patient-centric compassion while upholding the highest clinical standards. To locate a gastrointestinal doctor providing pancreatitis treatment in Houston, TX, reach out to our office today.
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Great communication and seamless appointment. Thanks Dr. Rao
(Translated by Google) EXCELLENT SERVICE AND THE DOCTOR AND NURSES VERY KIND. THANK YOU ALL I'M VERY HAPPY. (Original) EXCELENTE SERVICIO Y LA DOCTORA Y LAS ENFERMERAS MUY AMABLES . GRACIAS A TODOS ESTOY MUY CONTENTA.
Friendly staff very helpful from front desk to the people who prep you for your procedure makes you feel comfortable
The visit was great. However now that I have question and have left 2 messages for a call back, I can't grey them to call me back.
Dr. Rao is very knowledgeable about gastric issues. She is very thorough and made recommendations to get the best result. I would recommend her to anyone.
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