A brief overview of the pancreas and when to see a doctor

 The pancreas in the human body is about the 6-inch long organ that is located behind the stomach. It silently works like a machine, meal after meal. Being an organ of the digestive system, it works as an exocrine gland that releases pancreatic juices to break down fats, carbohydrates, and protein to extract nutrients and transform them into fuel for the body.

Pancreas might stop working properly because of certain pancreatic disorders which may include acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, hereditary pancreatitis, and pancreatic cancer. 

Causes of pancreatitis

Some of the most common cause of pancreatitis are:

• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Gallstones
• Some medications
• Genetic disorders

Symptoms of pancreatitis

• Upper abdominal pain
• Abdominal pain that aggravates after eating
• Abdominal pain that spreads to the back 
• Nausea
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Tenderness when touching the abdomen
• Indigestion
• Loss of appetite
• Smelly stools (steatorrhea)
• Sudden weight loss

When to see a doctor

When you witness any of the mentioned symptoms, you need to see a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. A gastroenterologist treats diseases and disorders of the esophagus, small intestine, stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, colon and rectum, and bile ducts and liver. 

When you consult with the doctor, he/she will advise you to undergo certain tests which are used to diagnose pancreatitis. These include a blood test, stool test, CT scan, abdominal ultrasound, endoscopy, and MRI among others.  

Preparing for your appointment

Now since we know when to consult a doctor, let us understand what are things that we need to keep in mind before visiting the doctor. Because these appointments are often brief and there is a lot to discuss, hence it is a good idea to be well-prepared. 

• Be aware of pre-appointment restrictions 
• List down the symptoms to explain
• Write down the medications that have been taken along with recent life changes 
• Take a family member along as it is difficult to absorb every bit of information  

What to ask the doctor? 

Some basic questions include: 

• What are the possible causes of the symptoms? 
• What kind of tests are required? 
• Is the condition temporary or chronic?
• What would be the best cause of action?
• Are there any restrictions to follow?
• What will be the treatment cost? 
• Will it be covered in health insurance?

Keeping these questions is important when consulting with the doctor. Also, it is important that individuals approach the best pancreas specialist in Delhi or whichever city they live in to be able to receive effective treatment.