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Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive inflammatory disease causing pancreatic scarring, pain, and digestive dysfunction. At GastroDoxs in Houston, board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Rishi Chadha delivers personalized care-combining lifestyle guidance, advanced diagnostics, and minimally invasive techniques to relieve symptoms and enhance wellbeing.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
American College of Gastroenterology
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is Chronic Pancreatitis?

Chronic pancreatitis is long-term swelling in the pancreas. Over time, this causes scarring. The pancreas may stop working the way it should. This can cause belly pain and trouble digesting food. The ICD-10 code for this condition is K86.1.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Excessive alcohol use
  • Smoking
  • Gallstones or high triglyceride levels
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Recurrent acute pancreatitis episodes (acute on chronic)

Signs and Symptoms

  • Persistent upper abdominal pain, often radiating to the back
  • Unintended weight loss and nutrient deficiencies
  • Oily, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
  • New-onset diabetes or difficulty controlling blood sugar
  • Bloating, nausea, or vomiting after meals

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses This Condition

Dr. Chadha uses a thorough approach to diagnose accurately:

Health History

Dr. Chadha will ask about your pain patterns, diet, alcohol use, and any family history of similar conditions.

Blood Tests

These help evaluate enzyme levels, detect inflammation, and identify any nutritional deficiencies.

Imaging Scans

Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRCP may be used to detect organ damage or blockages in the ducts.

Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS)

This test provides a closer view of the pancreas and surrounding areas and can also collect tissue samples if needed.

Dr. Rishi Chadha
Treatment

Our Houston team offers a full range of care for chronic pancreatitis.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Avoid alcohol and smoking to slow disease progression
  • Follow a low-fat, nutrient-dense meal plan
  • Eat smaller, frequent meals to reduce pain
  • Stay hydrated and work with our dietitian for support

2. Medications

  • Pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid digestion
  • Pain relief options, from acetaminophen to nerve blocks
  • Vitamin D and calcium supplements to prevent deficiencies
  • Insulin or oral agents for blood sugar control if needed

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • ERCP to remove duct stones and place stents
  • EUS-guided nerve blocks to reduce chronic pain
  • Surgical options such as a Puestow procedure in select cases
Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the chronic pancreatitis ICD-10 code?

The ICD-10 code for chronic pancreatitis is K86.1.

How does acute on chronic pancreatitis differ from chronic alone?

Acute on chronic (K85.1 on K86.1) refers to sudden flare-ups occurring in a pancreas already damaged by long-term inflammation.

What are the main symptoms of chronic pancreatitis?

Common signs include persistent upper abdominal pain (often radiating to the back), unintended weight loss, oily or foul-smelling stools, bloating, nausea, and new-onset diabetes.

Can dietary changes help relieve my pain?

Yes. A low-fat, nutrient-dense diet with smaller, more frequent meals often reduces pain and improves digestion.

What non-surgical treatments are available?

Many patients benefit from pancreatic enzyme supplements, pain management (from acetaminophen to endoscopic nerve blocks), and nutritional support.

When might surgery be necessary?

Surgery'such as a Puestow procedure-may be advised if endoscopic treatments fail to relieve duct blockages or chronic pain.

How soon will I notice improvement after starting treatment?

Diet and enzyme therapy can yield benefits within weeks, while endoscopic or nerve-block procedures may offer more immediate relief.

Will I develop diabetes from chronic pancreatitis?

Some patients do. Dr. Chadha monitors blood sugar closely and collaborates with endocrinology when insulin or oral medications are needed.

Is chronic pancreatitis hereditary?

Genetic factors can play a role. If there's a family history, genetic testing may help identify hereditary forms of the disease.

How do I schedule an appointment with GastroDoxs?

You can request a visit online through our patient portal or call our Houston clinic to book your evaluation with Dr. Rishi Chadha.

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