Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, the organ responsible for the production of digestive enzymes and the release of the hormones insulin and glucagon. Chronic pancreatitis is hard to distinguish from acute pancreatitis, except that it is almost always associated with gallstones and involves chronic pain. Chronic pancreatitis is usually caused by long-term alcohol use, and it can lead to glucose intolerance and digestive difficulties.

Cause: excessive alcohol, gallstones, infection (Hepatitis A, Epstein-Barr virus), drugs (e.g. anti-seizure medications, chemotherapy) and injury to the abdomen.

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis: severe pain around the navel and radiating to the back, nausea, vomiting, abdominal swelling and distension, flatulence, fever, sweating, hypertension, muscle aches and abnormal fatty stools.

Who to consult: Counselling, dietician, GP, herbalist, homoeopath, naturopath, pharmacist.