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Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis triggers sudden pancreatic inflammation, causing severe abdominal pain and complications. In Houston, Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs delivers expert diagnosis, personalized treatment, and advanced procedures to relieve pain, promote recovery, and prevent recurrences. Explore causes, symptoms, and comprehensive care.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct
Excessive alcohol consumption
High triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia)
Certain medications or infections
Family history of pancreatic disease
Signs and Symptoms
Severe upper abdominal pain, often radiating to the back
Nausea and vomiting
Swollen or tender abdomen
Fever or rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Acute Posthemorrhagic Anemia?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He reviews your epigastric pain, bleeding symptoms (dark or bloody stools, coffee-ground vomit), medication use, and signs of anemia such as pallor or rapid pulse.
Blood Tests
Complete blood count to measure hemoglobin, hematocrit and red cell indices; iron studies (ferritin, transferrin saturation) to evaluate iron stores.
Stool and Vomit Tests
Guaiac or fecal immunochemical test on stool and emesis specimens to detect hidden gastrointestinal bleeding.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper endoscopy (EGD) to inspect the esophagus, stomach and duodenum for ulcers, erosions or bleeding lesions causing epigastric pain.
Colonoscopy to evaluate the colon for polyps, tumors or diverticular bleeding if lower-GI loss is suspected.
Imaging Studies
CT angiography when endoscopy is inconclusive or active bleeding is suspected, to localize the source.
Abdominal ultrasound to assess for liver disease or vascular abnormalities that can contribute to bleeding.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Capsule endoscopy for small-bowel evaluation or angiographic studies with embolization to both locate and treat persistent obscure bleeding.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for acute pancreatitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes
Short-term fasting to rest the pancreas
Gradual return to a low-fat diet
Clear liquids or IV fluids to maintain hydration
Avoidance of alcohol and smoking
2. Medications
Pain relievers to manage discomfort
Anti-nausea medications
Pancreatic enzyme supplements to aid digestion
Drugs to lower triglyceride levels
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
ERCP to remove gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct
Endoscopic drainage of fluid collections around the pancreas
Image-guided necrosectomy for removal of infected tissue
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between acute and chronic pancreatitis?
Acute pancreatitis comes on quickly and often resolves with prompt treatment. Chronic pancreatitis develops over time with repeated episodes that can cause lasting damage.
How long does recovery take?
Most people start feeling better within 1-2 weeks when the pancreas rests and treatment is followed.
What's the life expectancy after acute pancreatitis?
With fast medical care and healthy lifestyle changes, most patients go on to live a normal life.
Can I stop it from coming back?
Yes. Avoiding alcohol, following a low-fat diet, and treating underlying issues like gallstones or high triglycerides greatly reduces the risk of recurrence.
When should I go to the ER?
Seek emergency care if you experience severe abdominal pain, fever, rapid heartbeat, or persistent vomiting.
What's the ICD-10 code for acute pancreatitis?
The code is K85, used for diagnosis documentation and insurance purposes.
Will I need surgery?
Most cases improve with diet changes and medication. Surgery or advanced procedures are reserved for complications such as gallstone obstruction or infected tissue.
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