The pancreas is an important organ and gland in the body that aids digestion and also facilitates insulin production. It plays a vital role in managing blood sugar levels, which in turn helps lower the risk of diabetes.
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Mangesh Keshavrao Borkar, Consultant-Medical Gastroenterologist, Manipal Hospital, Kharadi, Pune, suggests that even a mild pancreatic inflammation can throw the system off and cause various complications. Therefore, taking the necessary measures to keep the pancreas healthy is of utmost importance. To do so, the doctor shares common pancreatic illnesses to beware of and self-care tips to prevent them.
Also Read: Warning Signs Your Pancreas Is Struggling: Important Tests To Take
Common Pancreatic Illnesses
The pancreas is situated between the stomach and the spine, making it somewhat inaccessible, says Dr Borkar. However, just like any other organ, it is sensitive to a wide range of diseases, he added. Some of them include:
Acute pancreatitis
The condition refers to the inflammation of the pancreas, commonly brought on by gallstones or binge drinking. According to the National Pancreas Foundation, there are over three lakh admissions to the hospital for treatment of acute pancreatitis, of which 16.5% and 25% of patients experience a recurrent episode within the first several years. Abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting are among the symptoms.
Pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic cancer occurs when the cells in the pancreas start to grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of a tumour. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International (WCRFI), it is the 12th most common cancer in the world, and factors such as age, smoking, and family history significantly increase the risk of the disease.
Diabetes
Although basically a metabolic condition, diabetes is characterised by pancreatic dysfunction, which results in either insufficient or incorrect production of insulin, explains Dr Borkar. Therefore, new-onset diabetes can either be a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer or a potential early warning sign of the disease, as per a study published in the journal Lancet Oncology.
Cystic fibrosis
It is a genetic condition that can cause thick mucus to build up in several organs, including the pancreas, leading to digestive problems.
Also Read: Pancreatic Cancer: How To Know If The Cancer Has Spread?
Pancreatic cysts
These are fluid-filled, potentially malignant sacs on the pancreas.
Autoimmune pancreatitis
Autoimmune pancreatitis is a rare disease that occurs when the immune system of the body unintentionally targets the pancreas, leading to inflammation and damage.
Signs Your Pancreas Is Struggling
Here are some common signs of pancreatic illnesses that you must not ignore:
- Irregular blood sugar levels
- Digestive problems, like bloating or too much gas
- Unhealthy weight
- Jaundice, or the yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Unusual stool colour; ideally, brown stools typically indicate healthy pancreas.
- Abdominal pain or ongoing stomach ache
Self-Care Tips To Adopt
“Making lifestyle modifications is helpful for people with chronic pancreatitis since it can help with long-term treatment and reduce the chance of acute flare-ups,” says Dr Borkar, listing down some self-care tips to follow:
- Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and other nutrients that are well-balanced.
- Minimise your intake of sugar, processed foods, and saturated fats.
- Engage in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight. According to the doctor, exercise can enhance insulin sensitivity.
- Drinking enough water improves healthy digestion and lowers the risk of gallstones, which can damage the pancreas.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption. It is one of the most frequent causes of pancreatitis, and quitting it helps shield the pancreas from more harm.
- Make time for routine checkups and screenings. Pancreatic disease prognosis can be greatly enhanced by the early diagnosis of any problems.
Conclusion
The pancreas is one of the most overlooked organs in the body. What many forget is that it is also a gland that helps produce several enzymes that aid digestion as well as support insulin production to manage blood sugar levels. Unfortunately, it is prone to several illnesses, including cancer, which can be fatal. Early diagnosis and timely treatment play a crucial role in improving pancreatic health and reducing the risk of life-threatening events. Ensure that you follow a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid unhealthy habits, such as smoking and drinking.