Final answer:
Chronic pancreatitis symptoms include intense abdominal pain, jaundice, pale stools, dark urine, and potentially fever, malaise, and anemia. Diagnosis often involves blood tests for pancreatic enzymes and treatment focuses on managing pain and underlying causes. Risk factors include genetic predisposition, certain medical conditions, and smoking.
Step-by-step explanation:
Chronic Pancreatitis Symptoms
Chronic pancreatitis is a prolonged inflammation of the pancreas that can lead to various health issues. The symptoms of chronic pancreatitis often include intense abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, jaundice characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes as shown in Figure 12.7.4, pale stools, and dark urine. Other symptoms may encompass fever, malaise, anemia, and signs of decreased liver function such as transaminitis, along with conditions like cholecystitis, gallstones, and cirrhosis. Blood tests, which measure levels of pancreatic enzymes like amylase and lipase as well as checking for anemia and infection, can help in diagnosing conditions like chronic pancreatitis.
Treatment often involves managing pain with medication and addressing the underlying causes, which may include lifestyle factors such as chronic alcohol use, or health conditions like gallstones or infections. Additionally, pancreas function tests may be conducted to diagnose early chronic pancreatitis or associated conditions like pancreatic cancer and calcification.
Risk factors for developing chronic pancreatitis include genetic predisposition, certain medications, and lifestyle habits such as smoking, which is also a major risk factor for pancreatic cancer. Pancreatic cancer typically occurs after the age of 60 and requires vigilant attention due to its serious prognosis.