Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis
refers to acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas.
Acute pancreatitis does not last long and eventually
heals completely. Chronic pancreatitis is considered
irreversible and causes degenerative cellular changes
within the pancreas that continue and progress even
after the cause, usually alcohol, is removed.
Some
people with acute pancreatitis experience little to
no symptoms, whereas others experience severe abdominal
pain that stabs outward into the back. The pain usually
begins without warning, reaching maximum severity within
several minutes, and then persists for hours or days
(usually no more than 48 hours). The pain is relieved
by sitting and made worse with movement, and can be
accompanied by nausea, vomiting, sweating, increased
heart rate, and dizziness.
Symptoms
of chronic pancreatitis are similar to those of acute
pancreatitis, but they typically last longer and are
recurring, increasing in severity as the disease progresses.
What
To Consider
One of the primary causes of acute pancreatitis is excess
alcohol consumption. Abstaining from alcohol can help
prevent future attacks from occurring. Chronic pancreatitis
is often by gallbladder problems, such as gallstones.
Other causes include liver problems, being overweight
or obese, nutritional deficiencies, and/or the use of
pharmaceutical drugs.
In
some people, the only indications of pancreatitis are
poor digestion and assimilation of food due to the pancreas
being unable to release sufficient amounts of pancreatin,
an enzyme involved in the digestive process (evidence
of this happening is a pale-colored, bulky, greasy stool)
and/or diabetes, due to the inability of the pancreas
to produce enough insulin.
Future
episodes of acute pancreatitis can be prevented by addressing
the cause or causes. Chronic pancreatitis, on the other
hand, can require insulin shots, as well as a dietary
and program aimed at balancing blood sugar levels and
supporting pancreatic function. A liver and gallbladder
detoxification program may also be advised. In some
cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the pancreas.
Caution
Chronic pancreatitis requires professional
medical care.
Self-Care
Tips
Diet
During an attack of acute pancreatitis, fasting
from all foods and fluids except pure filtered water
is recommended. Then follow a diet that emphasizes foods
high in complex carbohydrates and fiber, such as whole
grains, legumes, and vegetables, along with small amounts
of fruit. Avoid all sugars, caffeine, and alcohol.
Nutritional
Supplementation
Useful nutrients for helping to prevent pancreatitis
include chromium, pancreatin enzymes with meals, pancreas
glandulars, lipotropic factors, vitamin B complex, vitamin
B3 (niacin), pantothenic acid, vitamin C, L-phenylalanine,
acidophilus, magnesium, multiminerals, and liquid chlorophyll.
Aromatherapy
The essential oils of marjoram and lemon massaged
over the pancreas and lower abdomen can help relieve
pain.
Herbs
A tea made from milk thistle, fringetree bark,
and balmony, and milk thistle can help ease liver and
gallbladder problems associated with pancreatitis.
Hydrotherapy
Contrast therapy of hot and cold packs can
help ease the pain caused by pancreatitis.
Juice
Therapy
Carrot, Jerusalem artichoke, beet and garlic
juice, combined with an equal amount of pure filter
water can help relieve painful symptoms of acute pancreatitis.
Lifestyle
Exercise regularly as this helps stabilize
blood sugar levels, easing the burden on the pancreas.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
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