Symptoms Of Pancreatitis

Or so that you can explain to others how important it is to be examined for pancreatitis if you have certain symptoms.

Inflammation of the pancreas is not all that rare, so understand its symptoms to know when to see a doctor.

Or so that you can explain to others the importance of getting checked for pancreatitis if you have certain symptoms .

The pancreas

The pancreas lies transversely in the upper abdomen of the person. It is an organ about 16–20 cm long, 3–4 cm wide and 1–2 cm thick. Their weight is between 40 and 120 g. It produces up to 2 liters of digestive fluids every day, which are released into the intestines.

The enzymes in the secretion of the pancreas break down proteins, carbohydrates and fats in the food in the intestine into a form that can be used by the intestinal mucosa. In addition, hormones are produced in the pancreas that are carried directly into the blood.

Inflammation of the pancreas

Inflammation of the pancreas is also called pancreatitis and the digestive enzymes released cause the organ to digest itself.

In addition, if the digestive enzyme production declines, the food can no longer be adequately broken down and digested.

Causes of inflammation of the pancreas

The most common causes of pancreatitis in humans are gallstones and alcohol abuse.

For example, if a gallstone clogs the end of the bile duct and leads to a bile congestion, it can simultaneously trigger a congestion in the pancreatic duct. The digestive secretions then accumulate in the pancreas.

It irritates and damages the tissue, causing inflammation. The organ basically begins to digest itself. Alcohol-induced inflammation of the pancreas does not always depend on the amount of alcohol used.

It is believed that there is an interaction with nicotine here. But that has not yet been properly researched. The fact is: alcohol and nicotine are not only harmful to the pancreas!

Symptoms

Violent pain

The pain comes all of a sudden in the upper abdomen, as if out of nowhere and is very severe. Most of the time they radiate into the back, sometimes into the chest or like a belt all the way around the body.

It can also cause pain in the thoracic spine area, which feels a bit like “lumbago”.

Nausea & vomiting

In addition to the severe pain in the upper abdomen, there are nausea and vomiting. However, the nausea does not always lead to vomiting.

Flatulence

The abdomen is bloated and painful, overall it is best to endure the “embryo position”: the knees are drawn close to the abdomen, the abdominal wall relaxes.

The abdominal wall is tense, but not very hard – doctors also call this “rubber belly ”. If you press on the stomach from the outside, it hurts.

fever

Often, but not always, a fever is added to the symptoms. Fevers of unknown origin must always be clarified by a doctor and should not be neglected!

activities

First, the doctor needs to make the diagnosis. This has to happen quickly, because if the inflammation continues, it can even lead to a circulatory collapse due to falling blood pressure. In the worst cases, a pancreatic disease is even fatal!

There are various tips to prevent inflammation of the pancreas or to support the healing of such an inflammation.

No alcohol

With 80% (!) Alcohol is the most common cause of pancreatitis, although the amount is not always the decisive factor.

Rather, it is about regular, mostly moderate consumption. So try to limit your alcohol consumption. This is not only good for your pancreas, other organs, such as the liver, will thank you for it too!

No nicotine

The relationship between alcohol, nicotine and pancreatitis is not fully understood. One thing is clear: it exists!

Nicotine is known to damage other parts of your body as well. Try to quit smoking, not just to protect your pancreas!

Prefer plant-based food

Try to include as much plant-based food as possible in your diet and cut animal fats from your diet as much as possible.

Animal fats can promote inflammatory reactions in the body and are therefore counterproductive in the case of pancreatic disease. Eliminate fatty sausage, fatty cheese and fatty meat products from your shopping list and prefer high-quality vegetable oils and fats.

Reduce excess weight

Those who are overweight have higher levels of inflammation in their blood. Diseases generally heal worse. Obesity can also cause diabetes, which is when the pancreas stops producing enough insulin.

Obesity thus promotes inflammation and diseases of the pancreas in two ways. You know that being overweight is not only bad for the pancreas, but also for many other health issues.