Pancreatitis in Thibodaux, LA
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
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
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.
Reviews
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
Very friendly staff.
10
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating