Pancreatitis

Description

Pancreatitis is acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas.

Types

Acute pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can be mild to severe. In mild cases, treatment resolves the swelling within a few days. In more severe cases, pancreatitis becomes permanent and causes degenerative cell changes within the pancreas.

Symptoms

Individuals with acute pancreatitis typically do not have any symptoms, however some encounter severe, “stabbing,” abdominal pain. The pain usually begins without warning, becomes unbearable for a few moments, and then subsides to a dulling pain for a few days. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sweating, increased heart rate, and dizziness. Rest is the best way to deter pain.
The symptoms of chronic pancreatitis are similar to those of acute pancreatitis, but they typically last longer, are more severe, and grow in intensity as the disease progresses.

Trigger

Excess alcohol consumption is one of the primary causes of severe pancreatitis. Abstaining from alcoholic beverages can help prevent future attacks. Chronis pancreatitis is often attributed to gallbladder difficulties such as gallstones. Other causes include liver problems, obesity, nutritional deficiencies, and drug abuse.
Be aware: In many individuals, the only indicator of pancreatitis is poor digestion.

Avoid future episodes of acute pancreatitis by dealing with the cause. Persistent pancreatitis might require insulin shots, and a nutritional plan aimed at balancing blood sugar levels and pancreatic function. A liver and gallbladder detoxification program is also advised. In some instances, surgery may be necessary to remove the pancreas.

Caution: Chronic pancreatitis requires the expertise of a competent medical professional.

Organic Cures

Aromatherapy: The essential oils of marjoram and lemon massaged over the pancreas and lower belly can help reduce pain.

Diet: During a severe attack of pancreatitis, fast on pure filtered water for one day, and then follow a diet that emphasizes foods high in complex carbohydrates and dietary fiber. Consume whole grain products, legumes, vegetables, and small amounts of fruit. Avoid all sugars, caffeine, and alcohol.
Herbs: The tea produced from milk thistle, fringe tree bark, and balmony, helps ease gallbladder problems related to pancreatitis.

Hydrotherapy: Alternate hot and cold packs to help ease the pain caused by pancreatitis.

Juice Therapy: Carrot, artichoke, beet and garlic juice, coupled with an equal amount of pure filtered water might help relieve painful symptoms of severe pancreatitis.

Lifestyle: Exercise regularly to increase blood sugar levels, easing the burden on the pancreas.

Nutritional Supplementation: Avoid pancreatitis with helpful supplements including: Chromium, pancreatin enzymes along with meals, pancreas glandulars, lipotropic factors, vitamin b complex complex, vitamin B3 (niacin), pantothenic acid, vitamin C, M-phenylalanine, acidophilus, magnesium, multivitamins, and liquid chlorophyll.

Alternative Professional Care

If your symptoms persist despite following the steps listed above, seek the help of a qualified health professional. These professional therapies have all proven useful in dealing with pancreatitis: Traditional Chinese Medicine, Detoxification Therapy, Energy Treatments, Enzyme Treatment, Homeopathy, Hydrochloric Acid Therapy (administered intravenously by a doctor in a 1/1000 dilution), Permanent magnetic Field Therapy, Naturopathic Treatments, Osteopathy, Oxygen Therapy, and Qigong. (See References for descriptions of these optional therapies.)