Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation of the pancreas. Repeated injury causes healthy tissue to be replaced by scar tissue, impairing its ability to release digestive enzymes and regulate blood sugar. Over time, this damage leads to persistent pain and digestive problems.
Symptoms may start mild but often worsen. Look out for:
Several factors can trigger or contribute to chronic pancreatitis:
At GastroDoxs in Houston, we specialize in comprehensive chronic pancreatitis management-from precise diagnostics and enzyme replacement to tailored nutrition plans and advanced endoscopic or surgical treatments. Our expert team delivers compassionate, patient-centered care designed to relieve pain, restore digestion, and improve your quality of life. Ready to take control of your health? Book your appointment today and let us partner with you on the road to lasting relief.
We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
The primary ICD-10 code for chronic pancreatitis is K86.1. If alcohol is identified as the cause, you may also see code K86.0 used.
Acute pancreatitis appears suddenly, often resolves with treatment, and may not cause lasting damage. Chronic pancreatitis develops gradually, leads to permanent scarring, and persists over months or years.
If you experience ongoing upper abdominal pain, unintentional weight loss, oily or foul-smelling stools, or persistent nausea and vomiting, you should seek medical evaluation promptly.
For acute on chronic pancreatitis, providers typically assign K86.1 for the chronic condition and add K85.9 to capture the acute flare-up.
Treatment may include pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy, a low-fat diet, pain management medications or nerve blocks, endoscopic procedures to remove blockages, and, in severe cases, surgery.
Absolutely. Quitting alcohol and tobacco, following a specialized nutrition plan, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce symptoms and slow disease progression.
You can call GastroDoxs in Houston to schedule an appointment with one of our expert gastroenterologists who specialize in pancreas disorders.
Yes. Certain genetic mutations (such as PRSS1 or SPINK1) can increase the risk, so family history may play a role in developing this condition.
Chronic pancreatitis causes long-term inflammation and scarring of the pancreas, while pancreatic cancer involves malignant cell growth. Imaging studies and biopsies help distinguish between the two.
There is no complete cure, but with proper medical care, lifestyle adjustments, nutritional support, and pain management, most patients can achieve significant symptom relief and maintain quality of life.
