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Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment

The first part of chronic pancreatitis treatment involves relieving pain. The next step involves planning a high-carbohydrate and low-fat diet (if the pancreas does not secrete enough of its own enzymes, a doctor may prescribe pancreatic enzymes to take with meals). Sometimes insulin or other drugs are used in chronic pancreatitis treatment to control blood glucose levels.

 

An Overview of Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment

Relieving pain is the first step for chronic pancreatitis treatment. The next step is to plan a diet that is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. Other treatment options for chronic pancreatitis may include:
 

 

Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment: Lifestyle Changes

For fewer and milder pancreatitis attacks, people with chronic pancreatitis must stop drinking alcohol, stick to their prescribed diet, and take the proper medications.

 

Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment: Pancreatic Enzymes
A doctor may prescribe pancreatic enzymes to take with meals if the pancreas does not secrete enough of its own enzymes. The enzymes should be taken with every meal to help the body digest food and regain some weight.
 
Other Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment Options
Sometimes insulin or other drugs are needed to control blood glucose levels.  In some cases, surgery is needed to relieve pain. The surgery may involve draining an enlarged pancreatic duct or removing part of the pancreas.
 
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD