Do you often experience a sudden pain in the abdomen that seems to come out of nowhere? If yes, then you must consult a gastro doctor in Kolkata.
Persistent and severe abdominal pain is not normal contrary to what most patients think. Rather, it is a sign of a serious health condition known as acute pancreatitis.
While we always take care of our major organs, the majority of people ignore pancreatic health. Neglecting the pancreas in the initial stage might not pose any major symptoms until the issues reach the advanced stage.
One of the main health issues affecting the pancreas is pancreatitis. It is a condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed and damaged by its own digestive enzymes.
What Is Pancreatitis?
The pancreas is a large gland that is located behind the stomach and next to the small intestine. It plays a major role in digestion and regulating the blood sugar.
The pancreas makes essential digestive enzymes that get secreted into the small intestine to help in breaking down food particles. However, at times, these digestive juices start attacking the pancreas itself leading to redness and swelling. Acute pancreatitis is an immediate response of the pancreas to injury or damage.
Acute pancreatitis is temporary; however if not addressed at the right time, it can also develop into a life-long condition known as chronic pancreatitis.
What Are The Symptoms Of Acute Pancreatitis?
One of the first noticeable symptoms of acute pancreatitis is sudden and severe abdominal pain that might spread to the back. The pain is constant and becomes worse, especially after eating and drinking. Some of the signs that patients experience are as follows:
- Swollen and tender abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- High fever
- Increased heartbeat
- Persistent bloating and fullness
- Indigestion
- Loss of appetite
- Unexplained weight loss
- Diarrhoea
- Clay-coloured stools
Always recognise the warning signs of pancreatitis otherwise the symptoms can escalate to life-threatening. So, whenever you experience one or a combination of symptoms, make sure to consult a gastro doctor in Kolkata.
Who Is More Prone To Developing Acute Pancreatitis?
The following are the reasons that make an individual more susceptible to developing acute pancreatitis.
- Heavy consumption of alcohol
- Constant smoking and vaping
- A family history of pancreatitis
- High levels of triglycerides due to certain medicines related to kidney disease and hypothyroidism.
- Gallstones leading to blockage in the bile ducts
- Genetics
- Obesity
In case, you fall under any of the above categories, make sure to get your pancreas checked to identify any sign of complication before it’s too late.
What Are The Treatment Options Available?
Treatment options for pancreatitis might involve the following depending on the condition.
- Medications: Prescription or over-the-counter drugs such as antibiotics if the pancreas is infected.
- Surgery: Surgical intervention is recommended in severe cases when there is infection or blockage in the pancreatic ducts.
- Intravenous (IV) fluids: It involves the administration of fluids directly in the bloodstream given through a needle to maintain hydration and electrolyte balance.
- Lifestyle changes: These include changes in diet, exercise and stress control.
Final Words
More than 80 per cent of acute pancreatitis cases get cured with proper treatment. Getting expert care from a reputed gastro doctor in Kolkata can make all the difference in preventing minor issues from turning into a fatal condition.
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