Acute pancreatitis usually develops suddenly with severe pain, and it usually lasts from a few days to two or more weeks, usually resolving with appropriate medical treatment. Chronic pancreatitis, which usually develops after several episodes of acute pancreatitis, is a long-term condition that can last for months or even years.
Pancreatitis is a condition that can be mild and self-limiting, although it can also lead to serious complications that can be life-threatening. The acute form of pancreatitis in its most severe form can have harmful effects on many other organs in the body, including the lungs and kidneys.
How is the treatment carried out?
Most cases of acute pancreatitis require treatment in a hospital setting, while some cases of chronic pancreatitis can be treated on an outpatient basis under the supervision of a specialist. Depending on the underlying cause of pancreatitis, treatment can vary in duration and medication. In general, however, the following treatment regimen will always be used to treat pancreatitis.
First line treatment will include:
· Starvation: helps the pancreas to rest and recover.
· Intravenous fluid infusion: to prevent dehydration during fasting.
Pancreatitis can be very painful, so it is often necessary intravenous pain relief due to strong drugs, including narcotic drugs.
If pancreatitis is caused by a blockage of the bile duct by a stone, surgery may be required to remove the gallstone and / or remove the entire gallbladder. Intervention may also be required to treat a pseudocyst or to remove part of the affected pancreas.
If the cause of pancreatitis is alcohol consumption, abstinence from alcohol and an addiction rehabilitation program are recommended. If a drug or chemical exposure is causing pancreatitis, drug withdrawal or detoxification is recommended immediately. If high triglyceride levels cause pancreatitis, your doctor may prescribe medications and a diet to lower the patient's triglyceride levels.
Pancreatitis medications
In general, the above treatment regimen is the basis for the treatment of pancreatitis. Pain relievers and medications may also be prescribed to control nausea. In cases of chronic pancreatitis, the doctor may also prescribe pancreatic enzyme supplements to help the body digest certain nutrients.
Do you need a diet for pancreatitis?
For people with pancreatitis, a diet low in fat and high in nutrients is recommended. Adequate fluid intake is also recommended to prevent dehydration.
What is the prognosis for pancreatitis?
The prognosis for pancreatitis depends on many different factors, such as the underlying condition causing pancreatitis, the severity of the pancreatitis, the patient's age, and underlying health problems. Patients with pancreatitis can experience everything from a brief limited lesion to complete recovery to a severe illness that can lead to life-threatening complications and of death. If a person has recurring episodes of acute pancreatitis, they may develop chronic pancreatitis, a lifelong condition that can lead to a decrease in quality of life.
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