Pancreatitis is a Serious Condition

Symptoms

Pancreatitis symptoms may include abdominal pain and swelling, nausea, loss of appetite, constipation. If pancreatic pain and other symptoms are accompanied by itchy skin, jaundice or unexplained weight loss it could be more serious than a stomach ache. Don't ignore pain in the pancreas. The pain will often start in the area of the navel and seem to radiate towards the back.

An inflamed pancreas is an uncommon but serious problem that can be either acute or chronic. The acute form begins rapidly and generally includes abdominal pain and swelling, fever, muscle aches and a drop in blood pressure.

Causes

Blockage: a gallstone blocking a pancreatic duct can cause digestive enzymes to become trapped within the pancreas. These enzymes, normally inactive in the pancreas, can become activated and cause damage to the lining of the pancreas and pain. Gallstones are the most common cause of an inflamed pancreas.

Trauma to the pancreas.

Lifestyle: Alcohol consumption, poor eating habits especially overconsumption of fatty foods, the use of certain drugs.

Viral infection.

Complications

If the condition persists, it can become chronic (long-term) and result in weight loss as the pancreas' enzyme-producing capacity is reduced. People with a chronically inflamed pancreas are at high risk for developing pancreatic cancer. It often leads to damage to the insulin producing cells resulting in reduction or cessation of insulin production.

Treatment

Regardless of the cause, this condition requires immediate attention by a health care provider. With proper treatment, it generally clears up within about five days. A diet that is low in fat and sugar will help.

Dandelion root stimulates the production of bile and improves pancreatic health.

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