Pancreas: Functions and Disorders

The pancreas is an abdominal organ and is a vital part of the digestive system. Its function is to produce insulin and other important enzymes and hormones that help in breaking down food. It also has an endocrine function as it releases juices that go directly into the bloodstream where it regulates the system’s glucose or sugar levels. Issues with insulin control may lead to diabetes. Other than this, it also has an exocrine function since it releases juices into the ducts. The enzymes or digestive juices are secreted by the pancreas in the small intestine. This is where it continues breaking down food. Let us know more about its functions and the common disorders of the pancreas. 

Disorders

If the above-mentioned functions are not properly carried out by the pancreas, it can lead to various pancreatic disorders, like:

• Pancreatitis, or inflammation of the pancreas: This occurs when digestive enzymes begin digesting the pancreas itself. 
• Pancreatic cancer: formation of cancer cells in the pancreas. 
• Cystic fibrosis: This is a genetic disorder in which a thick and sticky mucus blocks tubes in the pancreas. 

Symptoms 

The pancreas plays multiple roles. Thus, there can be various symptoms that an individual may observe in case pancreas is not functioning well. Some of the most common symptoms are:

• fever
• abdominal tenderness
• nausea or vomiting
• weight loss
• bloating
• diarrhoea
• light-coloured stool
• foul-smelling stool

These symptoms could be because of an underlying condition like EPI or pancreatitis. Thus, one should not overlook these symptoms and should consult one of the best pancreas specialists in Delhi or Gurgaon. 

Prevention

By altering a few habits and bringing in some lifestyle changes, one can prevent various disorders related to the pancreas. Some of the ways, in which one can reduce the risk of developing pancreatic diseases are:

• Consuming little or no alcohol 
• Consuming a low-fat diet
• Leading an active lifestyle (exercise regularly and lose excess weight)
• Skipping crash diets
• Quitting smoking

Severe disorders like pancreatitis and pancreas cancer can be treated if diagnosed in the early stages. Thus, it is extremely important to consult a pancreas specialist as soon as the individual starts witnessing symptoms. 

An Overview of Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a disease that occurs when digestive enzymes are activated while they are still in the pancreas. This irritates the cells in the pancreas can result in inflammation. The pancreas is located behind the stomach in the upper abdomen. It produces enzymes that help in digestion and hormones that regulate the way the body processes sugar (glucose). Pancreatitis is generally divided into two types- acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. 

Acute pancreatitis 

Acute pancreatitis refers to a sudden inflammation in the pancreas which lasts for a short period. Some of the most common signs and symptoms of acute pancreatitis could be:

• Abdominal pain 
• Vomiting
• Fever
• Rapid pulse
• Nausea

Chronic pancreatitis 

Chronic pancreatitis refers to long-lasting inflammation in the pancreas. Some of the major symptoms of chronic pancreatitis may include:

• Upper abdominal pain
• Unexpected weight loss
• Steatorrhea

Risk Factors

Various factors may increase the risk of developing pancreatitis. Some of the major risk factors include:

Cigarette smoking: On average, smokers are three times more likely to develop chronic pancreatitis as compared to non-smokers. However, giving up smoking may reduce this risk to half. 

Excessive alcohol consumption: According to research, people who consume alcohol regularly are at higher risk of developing pancreatitis.

Obesity: Obese people are more likely to develop pancreatitis. 

Family history: Genetics also play a major role and may be responsible for chronic pancreatitis in individuals. Thus, having a family history of pancreatitis may increase an individual’s chances of developing the condition. 

Treatment of pancreatitis usually depends on the type and severity of the disease. Thus, one should consult only the best pancreas specialist in Delhi NCR to avail proper treatment and medication for the disease. 

We hope that this information will help you get a better idea of the disease, its symptoms and causes.

Things You Should Know About Pancreatic Pseudocyst

The pancreas is an oblong-shaped organ situated on the backside of the abdomen. It sits behind the stomach and is about 6 to 8 inches long. Pancreas extends horizontally along the backside of the abdomen with its head on the right and tail on the left side of the abdomen. It performs the below-mentioned functions:

• Exocrine function
  

The exocrine function of the pancreas involves breaking down of food in the small intestine. The food in the small intestine breaks down when the pancreas releases digestive juices and enzymes into it through a duct connecting the upper part of the small intestine to the head of the pancreas. 

• Endocrine Function
  

The process of regulating the blood sugar levels by releasing insulin and glucagon is called the exocrine function of the pancreas.

Let us understand about pancreatic pseudocyst. 

Pancreatic pseudocyst

When pancreatic ducts carrying digestive juices and enzymes to the small intestine get blocked, the enzymes and juices start leaking. These fluids began to accumulate in a sac on the pancreas and this sac is called pancreatic pseudocyst. Pancreatic pseudocysts are completely different from true pancreatic cysts, even though both of them are filled with fluids. Pancreatic cysts are a closed structure surrounded by the cells that separate them from the nearby tissues. Pancreatic pseudocysts, on the other hand, are not closed and are not lined by the cells that separate them from the nearby tissues.   

Symptoms of the pancreatic pseudocyst

• Abdominal pain radiating to the back
• Bloating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Indigestion
• Blood in vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Fall in the appetite
• Drastic weight loss
• Jaundice
• Fever
• Fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity
• Decreased alertness and awareness
• Fast heartbeat
• Fainting

Causes of pancreatic pseudocyst

• Pancreatitis
• Injury or trauma to the pancreas
• High cholesterol
• Damage to the pancreas caused by medicines
• Autoimmune diseases
• Tumour in the pancreas
• Hereditary condition

People experiencing the above-mentioned symptom should see the best pancreas specialist in Delhi or anywhere else as soon as possible. Pancreatic specialist, after performing a thorough physical examination, prescribes tests like endoscopic ultrasound and blood tests to diagnose the pancreatic pseudocyst.

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.

Causes and Symptoms of Enlarged Pancreas

An enlarged pancreas can happen for several reasons. The pancreas is a big gland, sitting behind the stomach in the upper abdomen and aid in the digestion process. It creates enzymes into the small intestine to help digest food. The pancreas also produces glucagon and insulin in the bloodstream to help the body to regulate the food effectively for energy. Pancreatitis happens when digestive enzymes get overactive in the pancreas, causing damage to its tissues. This can be a reason for an enlarged pancreas. However, a few more causes and symptoms of the enlarged pancreas are mentioned below.

 

Causes

Chronic pancreatitis

Heredity, excessive alcohol consumption, cystic fibrosis, increased levels of fats and calcium in the blood, and some particular medicines are some causes of chronic pancreatitis. In such conditions, the swelling goes worse with time and can lead the pancreas to permanent damage. It is vital for the patients to consult the best pancreas specialist in Delhi, Mumbai or any city to start the treatment immediately.

Acute pancreatitis

In cases of acute pancreatitis, inflammation occurs suddenly in the pancreas. It can be a severe condition but can be treated within a few months of medication. Gallstones and alcohol consumption are two major causes of acute pancreatitis. Some other causes may include infections, certain drugs, extreme levels of fats in the blood, and some specific medical procedures. 

Pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer happens due to atypical cell expansion in the pancreas, gradually spreading to other parts in the body, if left untreated. 

Abscess

An abscess is a pus-filled hole, generally happens due to bacterial infectivity. A pancreatic pseudocyst that gets infected can develop into an abscess. 

Symptoms of the enlarged pancreas

People with an enlarged pancreas may feel pain in the upper part of the abdomen which is the most common symptom. However, some other symptoms may include the following:

• Weight loss   
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Jaundice
• Diarrhoea or oily stools
• Rapid pulse

On experiencing such symptoms, patients must instantly consult a specialist to find the right treatment. They need to contact the best pancreas specialist in Delhi, Mumbai, or any other city to start getting treatment on time.

Two Major Functions of the Pancreas

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. 

Understanding the causes and symptoms of pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is ranked as the fourth most common cause of mortality because of the poor survival associated with it. However, developed countries have a lower incidence of the cases of pancreatic cancer. 

Causes of Pancreatic Cancer

According to the medical experts, the precise cause of pancreatic cancer is still a topic which is being researched upon. However, reports have found genetics to play a crucial role in this disease. Genetics plays an important part not only in this but also in other types of cancers. Those who have a medical history of this disease are more prone to get diagnosed with this type of cancer. 

Apart from this, there are a number of diseases which are also considered to be the cause of pancreatic cancer:

· Familial adenomatous polyposis

· Familial breast cancer associated with the BRAC2 gene

· Hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (Lynch syndrome)

· Hereditary pancreatitis

· Familial atypical multiple mole melanoma syndrome (a form of skin cancer)

The risk of pancreatic cancer is increased in case the person has family members who have been diagnosed with any of the above-mentioned diseases. Also, smoking, improper diet, and chemical exposure are some of the causes which result in pancreatic cancer. 

Signs and Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

If the person is aware of the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer, then he/she can stay alert and take proper treatment on time.

Now, let us look at the signs and symptoms of this disease:

· Pain in upper abdomen which might extend to middle or upper region of back

· Weight loss

· Severe itching due to increased formation of bile acids

· Nausea

· Digestive problems

In case, the person notices any of the below mentioned signs and symptoms, he or she can consider visiting the best pancreas specialist in Delhi, Mumbai, or any other city.

Many times, pancreatic cancer causes Jaundice. This happens because a pancreatic tumour obstructs or blocks the flow of bile. And due to this, the bilirubin, which is formed owing to worn out cells, is not able to get eliminated, which in turn leads to jaundice. However, nausea and vomiting become more common during the last stage of this disease. Thus, it is crucial for the person to have the awareness of the signs and symptoms of this fatal disease.

Diseases of the Pancreas- Their Symptoms and Treatments

The pancreas is a large gland in the abdomen. It is a significant part of the digestive system and a critical controller of blood sugar levels. So, if any problem occurs in this gland, then the entire function of the body gets affected. Some of the common problems of pancreas are listed below:

• Acute or chronic pancreatitis
• Pancreatic pseudocyst
• Pancreatic tumors
• Cholangiocarcinoma
• Gallbladder cancer
• Common bile duct stone
• Gallbladder stone

Symptoms that Indicate that the Pancreas is not Working Properly:

If the pancreas is not working correctly, various health problems can occur. The pancreas can become swollen, develop obstructions and can get affected by cancer. It is vital to recognize the symptoms of a pancreatic disease, so as to start the treatment as soon as possible. The common symptom that may occur is the pain in the abdomen usually in the upper portion. The pain usually develops after eating and gradually worsens over time. An individual may complain of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea in case the digestive juices are no longer secreted by the pancreas.

Apart from these, some of the other symptoms that an individual may experience include unusual weight loss, general feeling of weakness, exhaustion, and malaise. The patient may also have symptoms such as loss of appetite and bloated stomach etc. It is important to consult a pancreas specialist in Delhi to ensure that these symptoms are correctly diagnosed.

How to Avoid Pancreatic Diseases ?

Adopting a healthy lifestyle and the intake of balanced diet can help in keeping the pancreatic diseases at bay. Restricting use of tobacco and alcohol may help in keeping the pancreas healthy. Moreover, taking foods that are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can also be of great help. Avoiding excessive fat and carbohydrates and drinking fresh juices are also quite beneficial. Maintaining the blood sugar at the normal level and keeping the body weight in check can also help in keeping the pancreas healthy.

Specialists also suggest that as soon as any symptoms mentioned above are noticed, you should always get in touch with a pancreas specialist so that the treatment can be started early. Early treatment of the pancreas may include administration of medications along with a successful overall treatment of pancreatitis which requires a team approach. The problems detected at a later stage are difficult to treat and may include treatments like nerve blocks, chemotherapy, surgery, radiation therapy and other supportive care depending on the extent of the disease.

Tests that are used to Diagnose Pancreas Problems

The physician in order to diagnose pancreas problem may suggest tests such as Blood Test, Secretin Stimulation Test, CT scan with Contrast Dye, Abdominal Ultrasound, Fecal Elastase Test or Endoscopic Ultrasound.

Thus, it is important to consult an experienced pancreas specialist so that the pancreatic diseases can be diagnosed and treated in a timely manner. 

When to Consult a Pancreas Specialist ?

The pancreas is an abdominal organ that plays an important role in digestion. Its main function is to convert the food we eat into fuel for the body’s cells. It produces many types of enzymes that break down the major food groups and turn them into fuel. It also helps in regulating blood sugar in the body.

Pancreatic diseases require specialist treatment. A pancreas specialist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the pancreas. Pancreas specialists have expertise in pancreatic diseases including Acute Pancreatitis, Chronic Pancreatitis, Pancreatic Cancer and Pancreatic Pseudocyst. If you reside in the Delhi NCR region, you have access to some of the top pancreas specialists in the country, and you can conveniently consult a pancreas specialist in Delhi to treat these pancreatic conditions.

 1. Acute Pancreatitis 

Acute Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that is characterized by gradual or sudden pain in the upper abdomen. Some of the most common causes of Acute Pancreatitis include gallbladder stones, excessive alcohol consumption, high triglyceride levels in the blood and high calcium levels in the blood. It can also be caused by cystic fibrosis, a condition that affects your lungs, liver and pancreas, and viral infections such as mumps. Some of the common symptoms of Acute Pancreatitis include nausea, swollen abdomen and fever.

 2. Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that gets worse with time. Unlike Acute Pancreatitis, Chronic Pancreatitis is a long term condition that causes permanent damage to the pancreas. This condition impairs an individual’s ability to digest food. Long-term alcohol abuse is the most common cause of Chronic Pancreatitis. Some of the other causes include genetic mutations, familial pancreatitis and blocked pancreatic duct. It can also be caused by auto immune condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks its own body.

 3. Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic Cancer starts in the tissues of pancreas. In most cases, it is not diagnosed in the initial stages. This is one of the main reasons why it causes many deaths across the world. Also, it advances rapidly. Some of the common symptoms of pancreatic cancer include weight loss, jaundice, dark urine, itching, nausea, abdominal pain and back pain.

 4. Pancreatic Pseudocyst

A Pancreatic Pseudocyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops in the abdomen.  It is mainly caused by sudden pancreatitis or sudden swelling of the pancreas. Some of the common symptoms of Pancreatic Pseudocyst include pain in the abdomen, difficulty in eating and poor digestion.

In any of the above conditions, it is important to consult the best pancreas specialist in Delhi to get timely diagnosis and treatment, as that can certainly improve the chances of overcoming these conditions.