1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Pancreatitis
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott delivers expert pancreatitis care with personalized diagnosis and treatment plans. From identifying causes like gallstones or alcohol use to advanced endoscopic procedures and lifestyle guidance, our team offers support to help you regain health.
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.
What Is Pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas - the gland responsible for producing digestive enzymes and insulin. It can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (long-lasting). Common causes include gallstones, heavy alcohol use, certain medications, and high triglyceride levels. Symptoms often include upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent complications such as infection, organ damage, or diabetes.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct
Heavy alcohol use
High triglyceride levels
Certain medications
Family history of pancreas problems
Smoking
Signs and Symptoms
Pain in the upper abdomen that may spread to the back
Nausea or vomiting
Fever or chills
Rapid heartbeat
Unexplained weight loss (more common with chronic pancreatitis)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He asks about your epigastric pain (often radiating to the back), onset, severity and any triggers such as heavy alcohol use, gallstone history or family risk factors. A focused abdominal exam looks for tenderness, guarding or signs of fluid buildup.
Blood Tests
We draw labs to measure pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase), liver function tests, triglyceride levels and a complete blood count. Elevated amylase and lipase help confirm pancreatitis and rule out other causes.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound - to check for gallstones, ductal dilation and pancreatic enlargement.
Contrast-enhanced CT scan - provides detailed images of pancreatic inflammation, necrosis or fluid collections.
MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) - visualizes the bile and pancreatic ducts for stones, strictures or leaks.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
Endoscopic ultrasound can detect small gallstones or early chronic changes. ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) may be used both to diagnose ductal blockages and to remove stones or place stents. In rare cases, fluid from pseudocysts is sampled for analysis.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for pancreatitis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Eat a low-fat diet with small, frequent meals
Avoid alcohol and quit smoking
Stay well-hydrated throughout the day
Receive a personalized meal plan from our dietitian
2. Medications
Pain relievers to ease discomfort
Pancreatic enzyme supplements to improve digestion
Intravenous (IV) fluids for more serious cases
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
ERCP to remove gallstones or place stents in the pancreatic ducts
Endoscopic drainage of fluid collections (pseudocysts)
Other specialized endoscopic treatments for chronic inflammation or narrowed ducts
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for pancreatitis?
Acute pancreatitis is coded as K85 and chronic pancreatitis as K86. Our billing team can help with any details you need.
Can you die from pancreatitis?
Severe acute pancreatitis can be life-threatening. Early diagnosis and treatment greatly improve outcomes.
How is chronic pancreatitis classified in ICD-10?
Chronic pancreatitis is typically coded as K86.1 (chronic calcific) or K86.2 (pseudocyst). We assist with insurance and billing questions.
When should I worry about pancreatitis?
Seek medical care if you experience intense abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fever, or a rapid heartbeat.
Can a healthy diet prevent flare-ups?
Yes. Avoiding alcohol and following a low-fat diet with small, frequent meals can reduce your risk of flare-ups.
How long does recovery take?
Mild cases often improve within a few days, while severe cases may require weeks of treatment and recovery.
