Pancreatic diseases are a group of abnormal conditions which are related to the pancreas, a gland that has a dual function. The pancreas is situated in the abdomen just behind the stomach and plays an important role in...
Pancreatic diseases are a group of abnormal conditions which are related to the pancreas, a gland that has a dual function. The pancreas is situated in the abdomen just behind the stomach and plays an important role in digestion by secreting enzymes. The gland is also important in regulating blood sugar levels by secreting hormones like insulin and glucagon. There are various symptoms which are related to the pancreatic disease and most of these symptoms start subtly and not visible to be diagnosed. It is important to keep a check on this organ, which is responsible for vital functions of the body by going for routine checkups.
Pancreas
The pancreas is a vital organ in the human body situated behind the stomach and having dual functions. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes and hormones responsible for the regulation of blood sugar levels. These hormones help to regulate the blood sugar level by consuming glucose in the cells. Another hormone called glucagon is used to regulate the sugar level when there are conditions of low blood glucose level. Any abnormality in the pancreas can be dangerous in the long run and may be life-threatening
List the functions of Pancreases
Here is the list of functions of pancreas:
- Produces enzymes for digestion (amylase, lipase, proteases)
- Breaks down fats, proteins and carbs
- Produces hormones (insulin and glucagon)
- Insulin balances blood sugar levels when it is high
List the Symptoms of Pancreatic Diseases
Here is the list of symptoms of pancreatic diseases and these include:
- Persistent abdominal pain,
- Severe abdominal pain
- Pain radiating to the back
- Weight loss in an unexplained manner
- Appetite loss
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Oily stool
- Fatty stool
- Jaundice
- Blocked ducts
- Yellow eyes and skin
- Unstable blood sugar
- Ingestion
- Bloating
List the Causes of Pancreatic Disease
Here is the list of pancreatic diseases:
- Gallstones
- Chronic alcohol use
- Smoking
- Genetics
- Autoimmune conditions
- Metabolic disorders
- Infections and trauma
- Cystic fibrosis
List of Pancreatic Disease Types
There are various types of pancreatic diseases and these include:
- Acute Pancreatitis
This is the short-term disease with sudden inflammation in the pancreas due to various factors like stones, consumption of heavy alcohol. The condition includes severe abdominal pain with nausea, fever, and vomiting. The condition can be serious and may require hospital admission.
- Chronic Pancreatitis
This condition is due to long term abnormality in the pancrase which leads to the infection, inflammation, injury etc. The condition can damage the pancreas permanently and limit the functioning of the pancreas. The condition is serious and can be fatal. There are various symptoms of the condition, like oily stool, diabetes, abdominal pain, weight loss, blood sugar instability etc.
- Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is another serious condition related to the pancreas that can affect the functioning of the pancreas. This condition is very serious and fatal, which needs quick and effective treatment for treatment. Pancreatic cancer has various symptoms like jaundice, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss etc. There is no particular cause of the condition, but various risk factors are available for the pancreatic cancer condition.
- Pancreatic Cysts
This is another condition which can affect the functioning of the pancrease is the pancreatic cysts. This condition is caused by fluid-filled sacs that restrict the flow of enzymes or hormones from the pancreas and leads a serious condition. These cysts can also be the cause of cancer or can be the greatest risk to the pancreatic functioning.
- Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)
This condition can lead to the malabsorption of nutrients and the conditions like fatty stool and weight loss may occur.
- Neuroendocrine Tumors
There are various other conditions like tumors in the hormone-producing cells. This is one of the rare types of condition,s but this is very dangerous and limits the functioning of the pancreas.
- Autoimmune Pancreatitis
When your immune system attacks your own pancreas, leading to various conditions like inflammation, malfunctioning and limiting other functions of the pancreas. This can lead toa very fatal condition and is dangerous.
List of Tests Used for the Diagnosis of Pancreatic Diseases
There are various tests used for the detection of pancreatic disease, and these include:
Pancreatitis (Book Now)
Pancreatic Acute Profile Package (Book Now)
Pancreatic Cancer Package (Book Now)
Pancreatic Polypeptide (Book Now)
USG Whole Abdomen (Book Now)
MRI Whole Abdomen (Book Now)
List of Treatment Options for Pancreatic Disease
There are various treatment options for the pancreatic disease and these include:
In case of an acute pancreatic condition following treatments can be given
- Hospitalization
- IV fluids
- Pain control medications
- Pancreatic fasting
- Gallstone removal
In Case of a Chronic Pancreatic Condition Following Treatments Can Be Given
- Enzyme replacement pills for digestion
- Pain management
- Lifestyle changes
- Avoid alcohol
- Avoid smoking
- Surgery
- Endoscopic procedures to relieve duct blockages
In case of Pancreatic Cancer, the Following Treatments Can be Given
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Palliative care
Conclusion
Pancreatic disease is very fatal because there are various vital functions associated with the pancreas. Enzymes help to digest food where as hormones help in the blood sugar level which is very important for the survival of the person. There are various conditions that can lead to pancreatic disorders like pancreatitis, cancer, pancreatic cysts, and pancreatic injury. Any abnormality in the pancreas can be fatal in the long run, anda person needs to keep a check on the condition of the pancreas. There are various tests which are used for the functioning of the pancreas and these include MRI, ultrasound, blood tests etc.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Is pancreatic disease fatal?
Pancreatic disease depends on the type and degree of abnormality; not all diseases related to the pancreas are fatal. Some are corrected through medication or lifestyle changes.
What is the role of pancreas?
The pancreas secretes hormones and digestive enzymes.
Is the pancreas an endocrine or an exocrine gland?
The pancreas has the function of both an endocrine and an exocrine gland.
Is pancreatic cancer fatal?
Yes, if the condition is not treated early and effectively
What is the treatment for pancreatic diseases?
There is various treatments like medications, surgery, radiotherapy etc.
Which cells are responsible for the production of insulin in the pancreas?
Beta cells in the pancreas are responsible for the production of insulin.
