Pancreatitis in New Orleans, LA
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is a condition that develops when the pancreas becomes inflamed and is not able to conduct its vital functions. Found in the abdomen, the pancreas assists with digestion. It emits essential digestive proteins called enzymes into the small intestine to help process food while also excreting glucagon and insulin into the blood circulatory system. These two hormones permit the body to control how it utilizes sugar as an energy source.
This condition may be diagnosed in various forms. The acute form of pancreatitis is the sudden, brief inflammation of the pancreas. In most cases, acute pancreatitis fully resolves with proper treatment. Chronic pancreatitis often develops on a more gradual basis and may last much longer. Instances of chronic pancreatitis are typically associated with heavy alcohol consumption.
Our gastroenterologists proudly offer pancreatitis treatment in New Orleans, LA. If you or a family member has pancreatitis, skilled treatment can be found at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates.
What causes pancreatitis?
Cases of pancreatitis occur when the digestive substances called enzymes mentioned above are activated prematurely and start to aggravate and attack the pancreas. The main causes of pancreatitis are listed below:
- High triglyceride levels in the blood
- Autoimmune conditions
- Abdominal surgery
- High calcium levels
- Gallstones
- Certain medications
- Overactive parathyroid gland
- Cystic fibrosis
- Metabolic disorders
- Alcohol intake
- Cigarette use
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Trauma
- Infection
- Pancreatic cancer
- Abdominal injuries
What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?
Several symptoms may develop if the pancreas becomes irritated. The main signs and symptoms of pancreatitis include:
- The abdomen is swollen or tender to the touch
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Smelly, oily stools
- Upper abdominal pain that extends to the back, especially after eating
- Elevated heart rate
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
If you notice these symptoms or require pancreatitis treatment in New Orleans, LA, please get in touch with a local gastroenterology facility today.
What are the treatments for pancreatitis?
Treatment options for acute pancreatitis typically include IV fluids, pain medications, and fasting to allow the pancreas to rest. In more severe cases of pancreatitis where an infection has developed, surgery might be necessary to extract the damaged or necrotic cell tissue. If acute pancreatitis arises due to gallstones, it may be treated by removing the gallbladder. Our seasoned providers at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates can suggest the best option for care to meet your needs.
Treatment protocols for chronic pancreatitis may include:
- Treatment for alcoholism
- Stop smoking
- Procedures to remove biliary obstructions
- Pancreatic surgery
- Administration of enzymes to improve digestive processes
- Avoid drinking alcohol
- Insulin use
- Adjusted diet – usually low fat
Specialists in pancreatic care
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with pancreatitis, it is important to get treatment from a skilled gastrointestinal provider. Regardless of whether it involves an acute or chronic case of pancreatitis, the GI specialists at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates can deliver the professional treatment you require. We are devoted to providing patient-centered compassion while adhering to the highest standard of clinical care. To locate a gastrointestinal specialist providing pancreatic treatment in New Orleans, LA, contact our staff today.
Reviews
The experience with Dr Kedia was exceptional!
The whole office was very friendly and dr Lemann took her time with me and was easy to talk too
Dr. Wegmann was very pleasant and gave me clear information about my test and the plan going forward. I would definitely recommend him to my friends!
We love this Dr.i think he's the most popular and he is funny too, everyone I know talked highly about him, that's why I went to him.
Love her. She takes her time. She is the only person that has given me meds that actually helps my ibs
10
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating