Pancreatitis in San Antonio, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a condition that develops when the pancreas becomes inflamed and is inhibited from performing its normal tasks. The pancreas is a large gland that aids in digestion. This gland emits powerful digestive proteins called enzymes into the small intestine to help process food. It also excretes the hormones glucagon and insulin into the blood circulatory system. These two hormones allow the body to control how it metabolizes sugar for fuel.
Pancreatitis can develop in various forms. The acute form of pancreatitis is characterized by the sudden, temporary swelling of the pancreas. Often, acute pancreatitis completely resolves with the right kind of treatment. The chronic form of pancreatitis usually occurs slowly and may be longer-lasting. Instances of chronic pancreatitis are usually related to heavy alcohol use.
Our board-certified gastrointestinal specialists are proud to offer pancreatitis treatment in San Antonio, TX. If you or a member of your family suspects pancreatitis, trusted help is available at a San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates location in your community.
What causes pancreatitis?
When pancreatitis develops, digestive enzymes generate in a premature manner and start to aggravate and attack the pancreas. The main causes of pancreatitis include:
- Elevated calcium levels
- Trauma
- Metabolic disorders
- Cigarette smoking
- Abdominal surgery
- Some medications
- High triglyceride levels in the blood
- Autoimmune disease
- Abdominal injuries
- Infection
- Cystic fibrosis
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- Alcohol use
- Gallstones
- Pancreatic cancer
What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?
There are several symptoms that might occur when the pancreas becomes swollen. The common symptoms of pancreatitis can include:
- Pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back, particularly after eating
- Foul-smelling, oily stools
- Fever
- Abdominal swelling or tenderness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Increased heart rate
If you notice these symptoms or are in need of treatment for pancreatitis in San Antonio, TX, please contact a location near you today.
What are the treatments for pancreatitis?
Treatment for acute pancreatitis typically involves IV fluids, pain medications, and fasting to rest the pancreas. If pancreatitis is advanced enough to where an infection develops, a surgical procedure might be recommended to remove the necrotic or damaged tissue. When acute pancreatitis arises due to gallstones, it may be addressed with surgery to remove the gallbladder. Our knowledgeable practitioners at San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates can determine the best treatment option.
Treatment for chronic pancreatitis may consist of:
- Smoking cessation
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestive processes
- A low-fat diet
- Treatment for alcoholism
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- Procedures to remove biliary obstructions
- Insulin use
- Pancreas surgery
Pancreatitis FAQs
How can diet help avoid flare-ups of pancreatitis?
Dietary adjustments play a crucial role in managing pancreatitis and preventing flare-ups. A low-fat diet, particularly reducing saturated fats, is essential because high-fat foods can trigger the pancreas to produce digestive enzymes, potentially worsening the condition. Eating small, frequent meals can help avoid overloading the pancreas. Including easy-to-digest, antioxidant-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support digestive health and reduce inflammation.
Can children get pancreatitis?
Although rare, children can develop pancreatitis. Causes in children can include abdominal trauma, certain medications, infections, congenital anomalies in the pancreas, or genetic factors. Symptoms in children may be similar to those in adults, such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and elevated pancreatic enzyme levels. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications in children with pancreatitis.
What complications could arise with pancreatitis?
The potential complications of pancreatitis depend on whether it is acute or chronic.
Most people with acute pancreatitis recover fully over time, with no lasting effects. However, a small number of patients may develop fluid collections near the pancreas, which might require medical intervention to drain.
Chronic pancreatitis, however, can resolve after multiple episodes, but it may lead to ongoing complications. These can include diabetes, weight loss, persistent pain, and an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
The experts in pancreatic treatment
Should you or a family member have pancreatitis, it is essential to receive care from a skilled GI specialist. Regardless of whether it involves an acute or chronic case of pancreatitis, the gastrointestinal specialists at your nearest San Antonio Gastroenterology Associates location can provide the medical care you need. We are devoted to delivering patient-focused compassion while upholding the greatest standard of care. To consult a GI specialist about pancreatic treatment in San Antonio, TX, please connect with a location in your community.
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Dr. Guerra is a rock star. He saved my life and his involvement with treatment for pancreatitis has been above and beyond exceptional. He truly cares about his patients, which is evident in the care he provides. Without Dr. Guerra I wouldn't be here. Thank Dr. Guerra for all that you do.
SAGA staff very efficient, friendly, and attentive. PA Martinez listened actively to my concerns and articulated very clearly the next steps, which put me at ease.
I felt listened and understood. P.A. Raigoza was very professional.
Great service
Dr. Bullock solved my daughters gastric issues 15 minutes into our first appointment. She had been suffering with gastric issues for over a year and none of the Dr.'s we went to previously could figure out what was wrong and just kept putting her on different medications. Dr. Bullock saved her from so much more pain and suffering and I am grateful!
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