Digestive System
Medications
Related eMedTV
Health Channels

About Chronic Pancreatitis

Browse eMedTV's wide range of articles related to about chronic pancreatitis including topics such as causes of chronic pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis in children, and chronic pancreatitis symptoms. Use the search box at the top-right corner of the page to find information about other health topics.

 Read About 
 
Description of Articles in About Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a disorder involving digestive enzymes that attack and destroy the pancreas. As this eMedTV article explains, this can lead to pain and scarring. This page describes the causes, symptoms, and treatment of chronic pancreatitis.

Common causes of chronic pancreatitis are alcoholism, a blocked or narrowed pancreatic duct, and heredity. This eMedTV segment takes an in-depth look at these and other chronic pancreatitis causes, such as certain autoimmune conditions.

Most people with symptoms of chronic pancreatitis will experience abdominal pain. As this eMedTV article points out, other chronic pancreatitis symptoms include vomiting, weight loss, and fatty stools. This page covers chronic pancreatitis symptoms.

As this eMedTV article explains, a doctor may use pancreatic function tests as well as ultrasonic imaging to reach a chronic pancreatitis diagnosis. This resource details how healthcare providers reach a diagnosis of chronic pancreatitis.

Relieving pain is usually the first step in chronic pancreatitis treatment. As this eMedTV segment explains, pancreatic enzymes and surgery are other options for treatment of this disorder. This page highlights chronic pancreatitis treatment options.

Chronic pancreatitis in children is rare. As this eMedTV article explains, two known causes of childhood pancreatitis include trauma to the pancreas and hereditary pancreatitis. This article provides an overview of chronic pancreatitis in children.