What Are the Causes and Symptoms of Chronic Pancreatitis?

Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term inflammation of the pancreas, a crucial organ responsible for producing digestive enzymes and insulin. The condition is often progressive, leading to irreversible damage to the pancreas over time. Understanding the causes and symptoms of chronic pancreatitis is essential for early diagnosis and management.

Causes of Chronic Pancreatitis

There is a combination of issues that can lead to chronic pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis that is not effectively treated can result in long-term pancreas inflammation. Causes that contribute to chronic pancreatitis include the following:

• Heavy Alcohol Consumption: Chronic alcohol abuse is a significant risk factor for developing pancreatitis. Alcohol can cause chemical changes within the pancreas, leading to inflammation and scarring over time.
• Smoking: Cigarette smoking has been identified as another potential risk factor for chronic pancreatitis. The exact mechanisms are not fully understood, but smoking is believed to contribute to pancreatic damage.
• Genetic Factors: In some cases, genetic factors may play a role in the development of chronic pancreatitis. Certain genetic mutations or conditions, such as hereditary pancreatitis, can increase susceptibility to the disease.
• Obstruction of the Pancreatic Duct: Blockage or narrowing of the pancreatic duct, which carries digestive enzymes from the pancreas to the small intestine, can lead to the accumulation of these enzymes within the pancreas, causing inflammation.
• Autoimmune Conditions: Autoimmune diseases, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues, can contribute to chronic pancreatitis.
• Pancreatic Divisum: This is a congenital condition where the pancreatic ducts do not fuse properly during fetal development, potentially leading to recurrent episodes of pancreatitis.

Many individuals with chronic pancreatitis may have a combination of these factors that contribute to their condition. Genetics, medical conditions and lifestyle choices all can play a role in the development of chronic pancreatitis.

Symptoms of Chronic Pancreatitis

Persistent, dull pain in the upper abdomen is a hallmark symptom of chronic pancreatitis. The pain may radiate to the back and can become severe, lasting for hours or even days. Some of the other accompanying symptoms of chronic pancreatitis include:

• Nausea and Vomiting: Individuals with chronic pancreatitis often experience nausea and may vomit, especially after eating. This can contribute to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
• Digestive Issues: Impaired pancreatic function can lead to malabsorption of nutrients, causing diarrhea and fatty stools (steatorrhea). This can result in weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
• Diabetes: Chronic pancreatitis can damage the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to diabetes. The development of diabetes is more common in the later stages of the disease.
• Fever and Elevated Heart Rate: Inflammation in the pancreas can cause systemic symptoms such as fever and an increased heart rate.
• Jaundice: If chronic pancreatitis leads to the blockage of the bile duct, it can result in jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes.
• Changes in Stool Color: The presence of digestive enzymes in the stool due to impaired pancreatic function can cause stools to appear pale or clay-colored.

It’s important to note that the severity and combination of symptoms can vary among individuals with chronic pancreatitis. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial to managing the condition and preventing complications.

Dmitri Alden, MD, FACS, is one of the country’s top pancreas and liver surgeons. If you have symptoms of chronic pancreatitis and need treatment, Dr. Alden is your source for advanced methods of combatting this disease, including chronic pancreatitis surgery. Call Dr. Alden’s office in NYC to schedule a chronic pancreatitis consultation.