Chronic pancreatitis treatment
Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Meet our practitioners who specialize in natural Chronic pancreatitis treatment
Recommended health tests for Chronic pancreatitis
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
At-Home Lab Test
Collect your sample and do your consultations at home, on you own time, and receive your secure result in just days on any device
How it works
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Learn about Chronic pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation of the pancreas that does not heal or improve—it gets worse over time and leads to permanent damage. The pancreas is a vital organ that sits behind the stomach in the upper abdomen. It produces enzymes that assist in the digestion of food and also secretes hormones, such as insulin, that manage blood sugar levels. Chronic pancreatitis affects more than 50 out of every 100,000 people worldwide and its prevalence is on the rise.
Causes
The most common causes of chronic pancreatitis are heavy alcohol use and gallstones. However, other factors can contribute to the development of this condition, including hereditary disorders of the pancreas, certain medications, autoimmune disorders, and cystic fibrosis. Chronic pancreatitis results from repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis, causing irreversible damage.
Signs and symptoms
The symptoms of chronic pancreatitis can vary from mild to severe, including: - Persistent abdominal pain that radiates to the back - Nausea and vomiting - Diarrhea containing undigested food particles due to malabsorption - Weight loss, often due to malabsorption - Oily, smelly stools (steatorrhea) - Diabetes, if the insulin-producing cells are damaged
Diagnosing Chronic pancreatitis
Diagnosing chronic pancreatitis involves a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory tests, and imaging studies. The initial step often includes a detailed patient history and physical examination. Laboratory tests may include blood tests to check for elevated levels of pancreatic enzymes. Imaging tests like abdominal ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) are crucial for assessing the pancreas's structure and function. In some cases, a biopsy might be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Prevention and natural treatment
Prevention of chronic pancreatitis focuses on addressing the risk factors. This includes limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing triglyceride levels. Quitting smoking is also advisable, as it's known to exacerbate pancreatic conditions. When it comes to treatment, functional medicine emphasizes a comprehensive approach that seeks to address the root cause of the condition rather than just alleviate symptoms. Dietary changes are central to the management of chronic pancreatitis. A low-fat, high-protein diet that's rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage symptoms and improve nutrient absorption. Supplementing the diet with pancreatic enzymes can also aid digestion and reduce malabsorption issues. Beyond nutrition, managing stress through mind-body practices like meditation, yoga, and tai chi can help reduce inflammation and improve overall well-being. Some people also find relief from herbal supplements like turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, but these should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Research on the effectiveness of acupuncture and manual lymph drainage therapy in managing pain and improving the quality of life in chronic pancreatitis patients is promising but still in its early stages. In conclusion, while there is no cure for chronic pancreatitis, a combination of lifestyle adjustments, functional medicine strategies, and conventional medical treatment can help manage the condition effectively, improving the quality of life for those affected.
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