Re: Pancreatitus

Your physician or specialist should be the one to advise you, but I can give you some information on pancreatitis.

From the description you give, it sounds like you have chronic pancreatitis, with flareups of acute pancreatitis. The pancreas is the organ of digestion that secretes pancreatic enzymes that break down your food. Pancreatitis often results from a blockage of the release of those enzymes, causing them to start digesting the pancreas itself. Your doctor should be able to tell you if you have gallstones (which can block the flow of pancreatic enzymes) or if your pancreatitis is due to other causes. During an acute attack, the person stops all food to prevent the creation of more enzymes. Recent research (Merck Manual) supports using oral pancreatic enzymes to slow the production of enzymes by your own pancreas. It would be a good idea to discuss this and other treatment options with your physician, and to find a physician who you feel can explain things clearly.

I hope this is helpful,

Chris Maloney, Naturopathic Doctor, Portland Maine

www.maloneymedical.com