The pancreas is basically a flattened long gland that is located in the abdomen. It is a vital component of the digestive system, and plays a key role in controlling blood sugar levels. Pancreas has a vital part in converting the food that you consume into the essential fuel required by the cells of the body.
Two major functions of the pancreas include:
üExocrine Function: Pancreas carries exocrine glands which produce enzymes vital for the process of digestion. These enzymes include lipase for breaking down fats, amylase for the digestion of carbohydrates, as well as chymotrypsin and trypsin for digesting proteins. These pancreatic juices are released into a system of ducts, as the food enters the stomach. The pancreatic duct subsequently joins the common bile duct in order to form the ampulla of Vater. This ampulla is located at the prime portion of the small intestine that is referred to as the duodenum. Bile and the pancreatic juices released into the duodenum assist the body to digest proteins, carbohydrates and fats.
üEndocrine Function: Islet cells that release vital hormones directly into the bloodstream are a part of the endocrine elements of the pancreas. Two of the prime pancreatic hormones are glucagon and insulin. While glucagon assists in raising blood sugar, insulin lowers its level. Orderly maintenance of the blood sugar level is imperative to the functioning of the vital organs, such as kidneys, liver and brain.
Being such an important part of the body, any ailments with the pancreas should not be taken lightly. As soon as you get the slightest hint that there is some ailment with the pancreas you must contact the best pancreas specialist in Delhi or in a city where there are good multispecialty hospitals. Some of the major ailments relating to pancreas include acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, pancreatic tumors, pancreatic pseudocyst, gall bladder stone, gall bladder cancer, common bile duct stone and cholangiocarcinoma, all of which must be treated at the very onset of the slightest symptoms.
Acute pancreatitis is one of the most common diseases related to pancreas. It essentially refers to the sudden and severe inflammation of the pancreas, manifesting as constipation, abdomen distension, vomiting and abdominal pain. Patients suffering from a severe case of acute pancreatitis may even suffer from respiratory distress and decreased urinary output. If you suffer from any of these problems then consulting the best pancreas specialists in Delhi or a hospital in the city where you live, would surely be the most viable options.
