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Acute Pancreatitis Treatment in Kolkata

Acute Pancreatitis

Acute Pancreatitis Treatment in Kolkata

Acute pancreatitis is the sudden and severe inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas secretes fluids that aid digestion in the small intestine. Moreover, it generates insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels. The most common symptom of acute pancreatitis is a debilitating attack of severe abdominal pain. When gallstones induce acute pancreatitis, the pain usually begins abruptly and peaks within minutes. When alcohol causes pancreatitis, the symptoms resolve with rest or by abstaining from alcohol. Patients with acute pancreatitis have increased pancreatic enzymes; these enzymes irritate and burn the pancreas and leak into the abdominal cavity. Delaying or untreated acute pancreatitis could lead to respiratory, kidney, or heart failure, which could turn fatal. If you are looking for the best acute Pancreatitis treatment in Kolkata, Manipal Hospitals is the place to look out for. 

 

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FAQ's

Acute pancreatitis is a severe condition that occurs when the pancreas suddenly gets inflamed. Pancreatic enzymes and various toxins may enter the bloodstream during an acute attack, causing damage to other organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys. However, if the cause of the attack is identified and treated, the pancreas can return to near-normal function. In some situations, severe acute pancreatitis may lead to haematological complications with poor outcomes. 
 

The two leading causes of acute pancreatitis are gallstones and heavy alcohol consumption. 

  • Gallstones: These are formed in the gallbladder. If a stone enters the bile duct (via the cystic duct), it may become lodged at the exit into the duodenum. 
  • Alcohol: Alcohol-induced pancreatitis is a severe condition where excessive alcohol consumption leads to inflammation of the pancreas. Alcohol sensitivity varies across patients (and the pancreas). There is no perfectly safe level of consumption; however, many individuals still opt to drink alcohol. 

The following are further known causes of acute pancreatitis: 

  • Several medications, including oestrogens, steroids, and thiazide diuretics
  • Infections such as salmonella, hepatitis A or B, and the mumps
  • Certain genetic problems may predispose an individual to developing acute pancreatitis
  • Trauma, injury, or surgery to the pancreas 
  • A consequence of too much calcium or triglyceride levels in the blood
  • Autoimmune conditions may increase the risk of developing acute pancreatitis 
     

The primary symptom of acute pancreatitis is pain, which can affect the individual in a variety of ways. It initially begins as discomfort in the upper abdomen, and the pain migrates to the back. Symptoms may start slowly or suddenly in the upper abdomen, move to the back, be minor or severe, and linger for days. Additional symptoms may include fever, nausea, vomiting, a rapid heartbeat, and a swollen or tender abdomen.
 

Doctors will perform a physical examination. You will have blood, stool, and urine tests performed. You could also have various imaging tests, including: 

  • Sonography (Ultrasound): Sound waves are used to see the body's internal organs. It can reveal the presence of inflammation within the pancreas. 
  • EUS (endoscopic ultrasound): This is an internal ultrasound performed using a flexible tube (endoscope) put through the mouth to visualise the digestive system. It helps detect signs of inflammation, cancer, or blockage within the pancreas or bile ducts.
  • A CT scan: This imaging test provides thorough X-ray images of any area of the body, including bones, muscles, fat, and organs. The imaging study provides a clear visualisation of gallstones and the extent of inflammation within the pancreas.
  • Magnetic resonance imaging: This procedure employs MRI to create detailed images of your pancreas, gallbladder, and pancreatic and bile ducts. MRI provides a clear image of irregular tissues or structures within the pancreas or bile ducts.
     

Acute pancreatitis normally resolves on its own with time. However, patients with severe acute pancreatitis can develop the following complications:

  • Pseudocyst: A fluid-filled sac may develop on the surface of the pancreas, which may increase the susceptibility of patients to developing infections or internal bleeding.
  • Pancreatic necrosis: Some patients with severe acute pancreatitis may lose blood supply to the pancreas, resulting in necrosis. The necrosed pancreas can develop infections easily, causing sepsis (infection spreading into the blood) and organ failure.
  • Chronic pancreatitis: Recurrent acute pancreatitis may permanently damage your pancreas. Some individuals may develop chronic pancreatitis, which severely affects their quality of life.
  • Medical conditions: An imbalance in body chemistry due to acute pancreatitis may increase the patient’s risk of developing diabetes or kidney issues.
  • Vascular and haemorrhagic complications: Major blood vessels within the pancreas can be affected, leading to haematological complications.
     

Acute pancreatitis requires prompt medical attention. Some of the treatment options recommended for acute pancreatitis are:

  • Pain relievers are administered to help control the severe pain associated with acute pancreatitis.
  • Intravenous fluids are recommended to keep you hydrated until the inflammation subsides. 
  • Some patients may require a feeding tube for nutrition, as they may not be able to consume food by mouth due to severe pain.
  • Acute pancreatitis resulting from gallstones may require Cholecystectomy. During the procedure, the gallbladder is completely removed to prevent future attacks.
  • Lifestyle changes, like abstaining from alcohol, can also help patients with alcohol-triggered acute pancreatitis.
  • In rare circumstances, surgery may be required to remove damaged or dead pancreatic areas.