Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation of the pancreas that leads to permanent damage. Over time, the diseased pancreas may lose its ability to produce digestive enzymes and insulin, resulting in problems with digestion, unintended weight loss, and the development of diabetes.
Symptoms can vary, but the most frequently reported signs include:
Several factors can trigger or contribute to chronic pancreatitis, including:
At GastroDoxs in Katy, our expert team specializes in comprehensive care for chronic pancreatitis. We offer personalized treatment plans, the latest diagnostic tools, and ongoing support to help you manage symptoms and improve your quality of life. Don't wait-book your appointment today and take the first step toward better digestive health.
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 most common causes include long-term heavy alcohol use, hereditary (genetic) pancreatitis, blocked or narrowed pancreatic ducts, and autoimmune reactions. In some cases, no clear cause is identified (idiopathic).
There is no cure, but symptoms can be effectively managed with lifestyle changes, medications, dietary adjustments, and regular medical follow-up.
Yes. With the right treatment plan-avoiding triggers, taking prescribed enzymes and medications, and attending routine check-ups-many people maintain good quality of life for years.
Acute pancreatitis presents as a sudden, often severe inflammation that usually resolves, while chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation causing permanent damage and ongoing digestive and metabolic issues.
Yes. Flare-ups can be triggered by alcohol, certain foods, missed enzyme doses, or other stressors. Prompt medical attention and adherence to your care plan help minimize these episodes.
Daily care typically includes avoiding alcohol and smoking, following a low-fat, nutrient-rich diet, taking pancreatic enzyme supplements with meals, managing pain, and keeping regular appointments with your healthcare team.
Not usually if managed early and appropriately. Effective treatment lowers the risk of serious complications such as malnutrition, severe pain crises, or organ failure.
Yes. Known as acute-on-chronic pancreatitis, these acute flare-ups require prompt medical care to manage pain, prevent complications, and adjust your long-term treatment plan.
Possibly. If damage to the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas leads to high blood sugar, you may need insulin or other diabetes medications along with routine blood sugar monitoring.
GastroDoxs in Katy offers comprehensive digestive care, including specialized evaluation and management of chronic pancreatitis by our board-certified gastroenterologists.
