Pancreatitis is a disorder in which the pancreas become inflamed. The pancreas is a gland located behind the stomach designed to produce hormones and digestive enzymes that help process glucose. There are many different causes, from biliary tract disease (i.e. gallstones) to alcoholism to cystic fibrosis, but ultimately pancreatitis is the result of those enzymes activating within the pancreas, rather than during digestion. Whether chronic (slow onset) or acute (sudden onset), pancreatitis can be very painful. Here’s a look at a few ways to manage pancreatitis from home.
Consequences of Home Remedies
It is important to understand that pancreatitis is a serious disorder and you should not hesitate to go to a hospital if you recognize the signs of pancreatitis. Without appropriate treatment, there can be severe complications, such as the formation of pseudocysts (pockets of pus and debris) or pancreatic cancer. However, there are things you can do from home to help continue recuperation after being released from the hospital.
Eating for Pancreatitis
It is essential to make changes immediately to help prevent further incidents, because multiple attacks of acute pancreatitis can lead to chronic pancreatitis. One method that can be quite helpful is to change the way you eat. Pancreatitis is often a metabolic disorder, and malnutrition, high triglyceride levels, and other issues can all contribute to its development.
Additionally, chronic pancreatitis can makes it difficult to eat because of the frequent pain and abnormal bowel movements. However, this makes a good diet all the more important. Rather than trying to eat 3 large meals, aim for 4 or more smaller meals throughout the day. This makes it easier for your stomach to digest.
The National Pancreas Foundation also recommends focusing on a low-fat diet, keeping your fat intake below 20 grams a day with no more than 10 grams of fat in a single meal. Include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meat (such as a chicken) in your diet. If you notice that your pancreatitis is getting worse, spend a day or two focusing on clear liquids and avoiding food altogether so your pancreas can rest. Make sure to stay hydrated whether you are eating or not.
Limiting Intake
Alcoholism is one of the most common causes of pancreatitis. While most cases of alcoholic pancreatitis are the result of many years of drinking, it can also happen as a result of binge drinking. If you have pancreatitis, a personal history of pancreatitis, or a familial history of pancreatitis, it is best to avoid alcohol altogether. While the ethanol in alcohol can affect the cells of the pancreas, the act of drinking alcohol can also cause dehydration, which may make pancreatitis worse.
Other things that can influence pancreatitis include smoking cigarettes (which can also cause many other health problems) and certain medications. If you have problems with pancreatitis, talk to your doctor about any medication to you may be on to ensure it will not aggravate your pancreas.
Managing the Pain
Pancreatitis can cause instances of extreme pain in the upper part of your abdomen, behind your stomach and above the small intestine, which may also radiate to your back. If you don’t like the way prescription pain medication makes you feel, find it ineffective, or do not like its affects on your body, you can try more natural ways to manage pain.
The most effective methods of controlling pain seem to involve managing stress and engaging in meditation or relaxation exercises. Yoga is a great method, not only for meditation, but for getting your body into better shape, losing weight, and using up extra fat your body may be storing. Talk to your doctor about other alternative forms of medicine that may help you deal with pancreatitis.
