Chronic pancreatitis is a chronic lesion of the pancreas with progressive changes in the structure of its tissues. The exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis is characterized by pain in the subcostal region on the left or shingles with worsening of the general condition, nausea, heartburn, difficult digestion and an increased amount of feces. It is diagnosed by laboratory, ultrasound and imaging studies, sometimes requiring biopsy.
Causes of pancreatitis
- abnormalities in the structure of the organ;
- diseases of the gallbladder, ducts;
- prolonged stress conditions;
- cystic fibrosis;
- hereditary predisposition;
- poisoning of various kinds;
- parasite infestation;
- trauma to internal organs;
- prolonged use of antibiotics, hormonal drugs, glucocorticosteroids, medications that negatively affect the organ;
- vascular diseases;
- diabetes mellitus.
Alcohol abuse, an abundance of heavy fatty, smoked foods, systematic overeating adversely affect the state of the organ.
Symptoms
Common symptoms in pancreatitis are:
- Painful sensations. They are often localized in the upper zone of the abdominal cavity. They are felt at the early stages of the disease. At the same time, the pain can be sharp. Consumption of products only intensifies it.
- Increase in overall body temperature. So the body can react to the penetration of a harmful microorganism or react to the development of the disease.
- Violation of heart rhythm, tachycardia – companions of pancreatitis.
- A feeling of nausea, vomiting. With exacerbation of chronic disease, these symptoms can increase, especially after eating.
People suffering from pancreatitis tend to lose weight, feces change odor and become oily.
Diagnosis of pancreatitis
If the above symptoms occur, it is necessary to consult a specialist. The doctor, based on the history of the disease, will conduct a number of tests. This is necessary in order to determine the disease causing the painful sensations.
Diagnosis of pancreatitis requires the following tests and procedures:
1. Laboratory:
- Clinical general blood test.
- Blood biochemistry.
- Urinalysis.
- Cal.
2. Ultrasound examination with an abdominal transducer. Will show changes in the pancreas, its tissues, detect duct blockage, inflammation, swelling, the presence of stones in the biliary gland.
For the purpose of additional diagnosis of associated diseases, tomography is carried out.
Treatment for acute pancreatitis
Pancreatitis in this form should be treated in hospital. Patients should observe the hospital regime.Many manipulations should be carried out under the supervision of an experienced doctor. It is not worth treating yourself independently. This will only dull the dangerous symptoms, and the disease will pass into a chronic stage.
To treat the disease apply:
- Medications to relieve severe pain. These may include antispasmodics and novocaine blockade.
- Ice cold on the area projected by the organ.
- Correction of homeostasis.
- Therapy aimed at relieving intoxication of the body.
- Antibacterial agents for the prevention of complicated consequences. They are caused by an infectious lesion of the organ.
Prevention of pancreatitis
To exclude the occurrence or development of chronic disease, it is necessary to follow the recommendations:
- Eliminate alcoholic beverages. Alcohol is the main provocateur for tissue inflammation. It is allowed to use an extremely small amount of alcohol.
- Refuse to smoke. Nicotine elements that are in the composition of cigarette smoke, poison the body. Carcinogens destroy the cells of the pancreas. This is the cause leading to pancreatitis.
- Adhere to a healthy diet. It is necessary to limit salt, fried foods, spicy and fatty foods. It is necessary to exclude overeating. The menu should be free of products containing harmful preservatives, various additives that have a damaging effect on the pancreas. It is recommended to use mashed vegetables, pureed soups, and fruit kissels. Over time, include in the diet of lean varieties of birds, fish, steamed omelets, soft-boiled eggs.
- Be active, adhere to the daily regimen. Walking is useful. A full night’s sleep is important. It is necessary to exclude stressful conditions. To increase immunity, regular moderate physical exercise is mandatory.
- At the first signs of pancreatitis should urgently consult a doctor for medical help. It is inadmissible to engage in self-medication.
Dietary therapy
Many people with chronic pancreatitis are diagnosed with protein-energy deficiency. It can manifest itself for various reasons: from prolonged starvation to chronic alcoholism. Therefore, people with this problem are recommended to eat fractional meals. It is desirable that it contains proteins and carbohydrates.
Treatment of chronic pancreatitis involves a diet with a sufficient amount of fats, proteins, fiber. Doctors recommend following a special diet aimed at reducing the load on the pancreas and relieving inflammation.
Regardless of whether you have acute or chronic pancreatitis, you should avoid spicy, fatty, fried, smoked foods, alcohol and foods with a high sugar content. Your daily diet should consist mainly of easily digestible foods: lean proteins, vegetables, fruits, whole grains and dairy products.
What can I eat?
- Lean meat and fish;
- Hercules, semolina rice (preferably porridge cooked on water);
- Fermented milk products;
- Pasta and vermicelli from durum wheat;
- Vegetables: potatoes, zucchini.
It is necessary to remove from the diet lamb, bacon, lard, and game meat. Do not eat sausage products, canned meat, delicatessen, rich meat broths, cold cuts. Also not recommended are onions, bell peppers, sharp, salty and smoked cheeses, spices, coffee, cocoa, energy and carbonated drinks. Do not forget to observe the optimal drinking regimen – at least 1.5 liters of pure water without gas per day.
Treatment of acute pancreatitis or the development of complications often requires endoscopic and surgical manipulations.
Conclusion
Chronic pancreatitis is a complex disease that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment and prevention. The key aspects are timely diagnosis, compliance with diet, avoidance of bad habits, as well as regular medical monitoring. Proper treatment and preventive measures can avoid complications and improve the quality of life of the patient. Compliance with the doctor’s recommendations and healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of exacerbations and progression of the disease.
