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Acute Pancreatitis

At Cypress-based GastroDoxs, our dedicated acute pancreatitis care team provides prompt diagnosis and personalized treatment plans for residents of Cypress and surrounding areas, ensuring compassionate, expert support and the latest minimally invasive interventions to help you recover quickly and safely.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What Is Acute Pancreatitis?

Acute pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes suddenly inflamed. Digestive enzymes activate too early, attacking pancreatic tissue and causing pain and swelling. Unlike chronic pancreatitis, which develops gradually and persists over time, acute pancreatitis has a rapid onset and often resolves with prompt treatment.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms usually come on quickly and can range from mild to severe. Look out for:

  • Sudden, sharp pain in the upper abdomen that may radiate to your back
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Tenderness or swelling in the belly
  • Fever or a rapid heartbeat
  • General feelings of fatigue or weakness

Causes

Several factors can trigger acute pancreatitis. The most common causes are:

  • Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct
  • Heavy or prolonged alcohol use
  • High triglyceride levels in the blood
  • Certain medications or diagnostic procedures
  • Infections, injury, or abdominal trauma
  • Genetic predisposition or family history
Treatment

Treatment Options for Acute Pancreatitis in Cypress

Treatment includes hospital care, dietary management, diagnostic tests, and procedures:

  • Hospital Support: IV fluids to prevent dehydration and intravenous pain control with appropriate medications.
  • Rest and Nutrition: Initial fasting (NPO), then gradual reintroduction of clear liquids, advancing to a low-fat diet as tolerated.
  • Diagnostic Tests: Blood tests measuring amylase, lipase, liver enzymes, and glucose levels to monitor disease severity.
  • Imaging Studies: Abdominal ultrasound or CT scan to assess inflammation, detect gallstones, or identify complications.
  • Endoscopic Procedures: ERCP for gallstone removal or drainage of pancreatic fluid collections when indicated.
  • Surgical Intervention: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy for gallstone-related pancreatitis or debridement of necrotic tissue in severe cases.
  • Follow-Up Care: Nutritional counseling, lifestyle modification including alcohol cessation, and monitoring for recurrence.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

When it comes to acute pancreatitis care in Cypress, GastroDoxs stands out for our board-certified gastroenterologists, advanced imaging and endoscopic services, and personalized treatment plans. From prompt, accurate diagnosis to compassionate pain management and nutrition guidance, we're dedicated to your rapid recovery and long-term health. Don't wait-book your appointment today and take the first step toward relief.

1K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for acute pancreatitis?

The ICD-10 code for acute pancreatitis depends on the underlying cause. For example, alcohol?related acute pancreatitis is coded as K85.2, while other forms fall under K85.0-K85.9.

How is acute different from chronic pancreatitis?

Acute pancreatitis presents suddenly and often resolves with treatment, whereas chronic pancreatitis is a long?term condition that leads to ongoing inflammation and permanent damage.

Can cats get pancreatitis?

Yes. Cats can develop pancreatitis and may show signs such as loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, and abdominal pain.

What tests show pancreatitis?

Blood tests for elevated amylase and lipase levels are key indicators. Your doctor may also check liver function and blood sugar, and order imaging studies if needed.

What does a CT scan show?

A CT scan can reveal pancreatic swelling, fluid collections, blocked ducts, or areas of tissue damage, helping guide treatment decisions.

What is the nursing diagnosis for pancreatitis?

Common nursing diagnoses include "Acute Pain" related to inflammation of pancreatic tissue and "Risk for Fluid Volume Deficit" due to vomiting or limited oral intake.

When should I see a specialist?

If you experience severe upper abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, high fever, rapid heartbeat, or signs of dehydration, seek care from a gastroenterologist in Cypress promptly.

How long does it take to get better?

Mild acute pancreatitis often improves within 3-7 days with proper medical care. Severe cases may require longer hospitalization and extended recovery.

Can I stop it from happening again?

Yes. Preventive measures include avoiding excessive alcohol, following a low?fat diet, managing blood lipid levels, and treating gallstones early.

Do I always need a scan?

Imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan is frequently used to confirm a diagnosis, assess severity, and identify complications like fluid collections or necrosis.

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