What is the pancreas?
Your pancreas is a long, thin organ located behind your stomach. It produces enzymes that help you digest food, as well as hormones that aid in blood sugar control. The experienced team at Colorado Gastroenterology specialize in pancreatic health and can evaluate your pancreas if you have concerns or symptoms that may indicate a pancreatic condition.
What are common health conditions that affect the pancreas?
There are many conditions that affect the pancreas. Some of the most common include:
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis refers to inflammation of your pancreas that occurs when your digestive enzymes activate while they’re still in the gland. Your pancreatitis may be acute or chronic. You may be at risk of developing pancreatitis if you have gallstones, smoke cigarettes or have a family history of pancreatitis.
Whether acute or chronic, pancreatitis causes severe abdominal pain. Treatment depends on the type of pancreatitis you have, the underlying cause, and your symptoms.
For acute pancreatitis, you may only need bowel rest, fluids and pain medication. With chronic pancreatitis, you may need to supplement with digestive enzymes and take pain medication to control symptoms.
Pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer is a common cancer that affects both men and women, and in advanced stages, doesn’t respond well to traditional treatments. In the early stages, this fast-growing cancer may not cause symptoms, which makes early diagnosis difficult. Painless jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin or eyes, is usually the first indication of the cancer.
If caught early, surgical resection can cure pancreatic cancer.
How do I know if I have a pancreatic condition?
Your specialist at Colorado Gastroenterology conducts a comprehensive examination when you come in with concerns that may be indicative of a pancreatic condition. Your examination may include:
- Review of your symptoms and medical history
- Physical exam
- Blood or stool test
- Diagnostic testing, such as ultrasound or CT scan
Based on the information gathered during your evaluation, your specialist can develop the most effective treatment plan for your pancreatic condition.
Are there tests to assess my risk for pancreatic cancer?
If you have a family history of pancreatic cancer, you may have concerns about your risk. Your specialist at Colorado Gastroenterology may be able to screen for pancreatic cancer with an ultrasound or CT scan.
To get answers for your pancreas health concerns, call Colorado Gastroenterology today.
