Chronic Pancreatitis and Prevention

Chronic Pancreatitis and Prevention

The main goals of treatment for chronic pancreatitis are to stop alcohol and drug abuse, control pain and improve malabsorption problems. People who don't stop drinking have a death rate three times higher than people who abstain from alcohol. 
Unlike acute pancreatitis in which the pain often disappears within a few days to weeks, in chronic pancreatitis it can linger. Options for pain control are :

Pain killing medicines : It is important to use medicines which do not become addictive. 

Enzyme replacement therapy: Providing enzymes from outside decreases the load on the pancreas to secrete enzymes. This reduces secretion pressure and hence pain. 

Surgery : Surgery is considered in those cases where pain cannot be controlled by other means. Enzyme supplements are required to manage malabsorption problems. Eating smaller meals and limiting fats helps as this reduces the need for digestive enzymes. 

Prevention

Although pancreatitis isn't always preventable, you can take steps to reduce your risk : 

Stop alcohol : Once a person has developed pancreatitis, he should not drink at all as any drinking carries the risk of new attacks. 

Prevent gallstones : Controlling the weight and maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle may prevent gallstones. 

Stop smoking : Tobacco use increases the risk of pancreatitis, especially if alcohol is also consumed

Pancreatitis
Causes of Pancreatitis
Chronic Pancreatitis
Diagnosis for Pancreatitis
Complications due to Acute Pancreataitis
Chronic Pancreatitis and Prevention