Pancreatitis in Illinois

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Pancreatitis is a condition that occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed and swollen and is prevented from conducting its critical duties. Located in the abdomen, the pancreas aids in the digestive process. The gland excretes essential digestive enzymes into the small bowel to help digest food. It also emits glucagon and insulin into the blood, which help the body control how it metabolizes sugar as an energy source.

This condition can occur in a couple of different forms. The acute form of pancreatitis describes the sudden, temporary swelling of the pancreas. The majority of cases of acute pancreatitis fully resolve with the right form of care. Chronic pancreatitis often arises slowly and may be longer-term. Cases of chronic pancreatitis are often associated with heavy alcohol use.

Our gastroenterology physicians are proud to offer pancreatitis treatment in Chicago, Peoria, IL, and Normal, IL. If you or a loved one may have pancreatitis, personalized treatment can be received through GI Alliance of Illinois.

When pancreatitis develops, the digestive enzymes discussed above are triggered in a premature manner and begin to irritate and attack the pancreas. The leading causes of pancreatitis are as follows:

  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Gallstones
  • Injury or trauma
  • Pancreatic cancer
  • Family history of pancreatitis
  • Infection
  • Certain medications
  • Elevated amounts of calcium
  • Abdominal injuries
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Metabolic disorders
  • Elevated triglyceride levels in the blood
  • Overactive parathyroid gland
  • Abdominal surgery

Symptoms may become noticeable if the pancreas becomes swollen. The main signs and symptoms of pancreatitis are included below:

  • Elevated heart rate
  • Abdominal swelling or tenderness
  • Pain in the upper abdomen that radiates to the back, particularly after eating
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Upper abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Oily, odorous stools

If you experience these symptoms or require medical care for pancreatitis in Illinois please reach out to GI Alliance of Illinois to find a location near you.

Treatment for acute pancreatitis often entails IV fluids, pain medications, and fasting to rest the pancreas. If pancreatitis is more severe, a surgical procedure might be necessary to extract the necrotic or damaged tissue if an infection occurs. If acute cases of pancreatitis results from gallstones, it could be treated with a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder. Our skilled network of providers at GI Alliance of Illinois can suggest the ideal treatment approach.

Treatment methods for chronic pancreatitis may include:

  • Low-fat diet
  • Pancreatic surgery
  • Smoking cessation
  • Treatment for alcoholism
  • Administration of enzymes to improve digestive function
  • Insulin
  • Adjusted diet – usually low fat
  • Avoid alcohol consumption
  • Procedures to remove bile duct obstructions
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Should you or a member of your family have pancreatitis, it is essential to receive care from an experienced gastrointestinal physician. Whether your pancreatitis is acute or chronic, the network of providers at GI Alliance of Illinois can provide the personalized services you seek. We are devoted to providing patient-centric compassion while maintaining the highest clinical standards. To consult a gastrointestinal doctor offering pancreatic treatment in Illinois please reach out GI Alliance of Illinois..

One of the best physicians in his specialty. Takes best care of his patients.

M.A. Google

Dr. Julka was very professional and informative. His knowledge is very valuable and I will be continuing my appointments with him when needed.

S.J. Google

Dr Raddawi is a good listener. That to me is a very important part of a patient's treatment.

D.K. Google

Very friendly and understanding when I had a pancreatitis attack, they were able to get me an appt for an endoscopy within two weeks to figure out what's going on with me. Everyone was so sweet, I would recommend their office to anyone!

B.B. Google

Easy to schedule. Very friendly staff.

A.M. Google

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