Chronic Pancreatitis in Houston

Symptoms of Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis can develop gradually, with symptoms worsening over time. Common signs include:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain that may radiate to the back
• Unintended weight loss due to poor digestion
• Frequent nausea and vomiting
• Oily, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea) due to fat malabsorption
• Diabetes or blood sugar fluctuations from pancreatic damage

If you experience these symptoms, early intervention is essential to prevent complications.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several factors can contribute to the development of chronic pancreatitis, including:

• Long-term alcohol consumption (a leading cause)
• Gallstones or bile duct obstruction
• Genetic predisposition or family history of pancreatitis
• Autoimmune disorders affecting the pancreas
• Certain medications or metabolic conditions
• Recurrent acute pancreatitis episodes leading to chronic inflammation

Understanding the underlying cause helps us tailor treatment plans for better management.

Diagnosis of Chronic Pancreatitis

At Curative Digestive Disease Center, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to evaluate chronic pancreatitis, including:

• Comprehensive blood tests to assess enzyme levels
• Abdominal imaging (CT scan, MRI, or MRCP) for pancreatic damage
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) for detailed pancreatic assessment
• Stool tests to evaluate fat malabsorption

Early diagnosis allows for better symptom control and prevention of further complications.

Treatment and Management

While chronic pancreatitis cannot be cured, our team offers personalized treatment plans to manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Our approach includes:

✔ Pain management through medications and lifestyle adjustments
✔ Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) to aid digestion
✔ Nutritional counseling to ensure proper diet and vitamin supplementation
✔ Diabetes management for patients with pancreatic insufficiency
✔ Minimally invasive endoscopic procedures for drainage or stone removal
✔ Surgical options when necessary for severe cases

We focus on long-term care strategies to help patients maintain digestive health and minimize complications.

Why Choose Curative Digestive Disease Center?

Expert Care: Led by Dr. Ahmad Farooq, a Yale and Duke-trained gastroenterologist in Houston.
Advanced Diagnostics: Cutting-edge imaging and endoscopic technology for accurate evaluation.
Comprehensive Treatment Plans: Individualized care to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
In-House Pathology Services: Quick and precise diagnostic results for timely treatment.

If you or a loved one is struggling with chronic pancreatitis, we are here to help. Schedule an appointment today at Curative Digestive Disease Center and take the first step toward better digestive health.