Pancreatitis in Thibodaux, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a condition that occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed and is hindered from conducting its primary functions. A large gland, the pancreas aids in digestion. This gland excretes essential digestive proteins called enzymes into the small bowel to help break down food. It also emits the hormones insulin and glucagon into the blood, which enables the body to regulate the way it utilizes glucose for fuel.
This condition might be diagnosed in a couple of different ways.
- Acute pancreatitis: Acute pancreatitis describes the abrupt, temporary inflammation of the pancreas. Most cases of acute pancreatitis resolve with proper care.
- Chronic pancreatitis: The chronic type of pancreatitis often arises slowly and may last for a longer period of time. It is typically associated with heavy alcohol consumption.
Our board-certified gastroenterologists provide pancreatitis treatment in Thibodaux, LA. If you or someone you love is experiencing pancreatitis, expert treatment can be received at Digestive Health Center.
What are the causes of pancreatitis?
Cases of pancreatitis occur when the digestive proteins (enzymes) are activated too early and start to inflame and attack the pancreas. The leading causes of pancreatitis are as follows:
- Abdominal surgery
- Some medications
- Pancreatic cancer
- Injury or trauma
- Autoimmune disease
- Infection
- High triglyceride levels in the blood
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- Gallstones
- Elevated calcium levels
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Metabolic conditions
- Abdominal injuries
- Cigarette use
- Alcohol consumption
- Cystic fibrosis
What are common symptoms of pancreatitis?
A number of symptoms may occur if your pancreas becomes inflamed. The common symptoms and signs of pancreatitis involve:
- Smelly, oily stools
- Pain in the upper abdomen that extends to your back, particularly after eating
- Fever
- The abdomen is tender to the touch or swollen
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Elevated heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
If you have these symptoms or are in need of treatment for pancreatitis in Thibodaux, LA, please contact your nearest Digestive Health Center location right away.
How is pancreatitis treated?
Treatment for acute pancreatitis commonly entails pain medications, fasting to rest the pancreas, and intravenous (IV) fluids. When pancreatitis is advanced enough, surgery might be necessary to extract the damaged or dead cell tissue if an infection arises. When acute pancreatitis arises due to gallstones, pancreatitis may be addressed with a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. Our expert providers at Digestive Health Center can suggest the best treatment option.
Treatment for chronic pancreatitis may include:
- Insulin use
- Diet modifications – typically low fat
- Procedures to remove bile duct obstructions
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestion
- Treatment for alcoholism
- Pancreas surgery
- Avoid smoking
- Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages
Pancreatitis FAQs
How can diet impact pancreatitis flare-ups?
Your diet can make a significant difference in managing pancreatitis and avoiding flare-ups. Consuming a low-fat diet, especially avoiding foods high in saturated fats, is important because fatty foods can stimulate the pancreas, leading to more digestive enzyme release and potentially worsening the condition. Eating small, frequent meals helps ensure the pancreas is not overloaded. Including easily digestible, antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support digestive health and minimize inflammation.
Can pancreatitis occur in children?
Though uncommon, pancreatitis can happen in children. Various factors can lead to pancreatitis in children, including abdominal injuries, certain medications, infections, congenital pancreatic abnormalities, or genetic predispositions. Pancreatitis symptoms in children can be similar to those in adults, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzyme levels. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent complications in children with pancreatitis.
What are the potential complications of pancreatitis?
Complications from pancreatitis depend on whether the condition is acute or chronic. Most people with acute pancreatitis recover completely without lasting effects, though some might develop fluid collections around the pancreas that require medical intervention. Chronic pancreatitis tends to have a longer resolution period and carries a higher risk of long-term complications. These complications can include diabetes, ongoing pain, weight loss, and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
Specialists in pancreatic care
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with pancreatitis, it is important to seek care from a skilled gastrointestinal physician. Whether it is acute or chronic pancreatitis, the gastroenterologists at Digestive Health Center can help you get the professional treatment you need. We are dedicated to providing patient-centric compassion while adhering to the highest standard of clinical care. To consult with a GI specialist providing pancreatic care in Thibodaux, LA, reach out to one of our locations near you today.
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Dr. Monier was very helpful and friendly. He explains things in a way that’s easy to understand. He doesn’t speak over your head about your condition which put me at ease immediately. I would recommend him and his wonderful staff to anyone.
Welcoming and knowledgeable doctor and staff. I have recommended Dr. Toups to family and friends.
Katie Hebert is very knowledgeable in the digestive system and about my condition. She provided me with options, which enabled me to choose the best plan for treatment. I am very pleased with the staff at the Thibodaux office.
My visit was very pleasant and Dr. Monier was very helpful and answered any questions or concerns that I had I would definitely recommend him to my family and friends
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