An Introduction to Pancreatitis Treatment
Treatment options for
pancreatitis depend on a number of factors. These factors include:
- The type of pancreatitis (acute versus chronic )
- The symptoms a person is experiencing
- Associated complications.
Depending on these factors, pancreatitis treatment may include:
- Medications
- Surgery
- Diet and lifestyle changes.
As part of treating
acute pancreatitis, a hospital stay will be necessary so that fluids can be replaced through an intravenous line (IV). People with chronic
symptoms of pancreatitis may not need to stay in the hospital unless they have associated complications.
Using Medications to Treat Pancreatitis
Pain medicines may be given as pancreatitis treatment to control pain. Sometimes,
insulin or other drugs are needed to control blood glucose.
Surgery as a Pancreatitis Treatment
If acute pancreatitis is caused by a gallstone, surgery may be necessary to remove the gallstone and gallbladder (cholecystectomy). A gallstone may also be removed through a procedure called an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP).
If pancreatic pseudocysts occur and are considered large enough to interfere with the healing of the
pancreas, the doctor may drain or surgically remove them.
When treating
chronic pancreatitis, in some cases, surgery is needed to relieve pain. The surgery may involve draining an enlarged pancreatic duct or removing part of the pancreas.
