5. Impact on Digestive Health
Chronic pancreatitis profoundly affects the digestive system. The pancreas produces essential enzymes for breaking down food.
When inflamed over a long period, enzyme production diminishes. This leads to digestive problems.
Patients often experience malabsorption of nutrients. This is because the food isn’t broken down properly. It can result in diarrhea, weight loss, and malnutrition.
These are common issues in chronic pancreatitis. Patients may need to take pancreatic enzyme supplements. This helps improve nutrient absorption and manage symptoms.
Fat malabsorption is particularly common. It leads to steatorrhea, which are oily, foul-smelling stools.
This can be distressing and impact a patient’s quality of life. Dietary changes, including a low-fat diet, may also be recommended. These changes can help manage symptoms and improve nutrient absorption.
Over time, chronic pancreatitis can lead to changes in the pancreas’s structure. This includes the formation of calcifications and cysts.
These changes can be seen on imaging tests. They can contribute to pain and other symptoms. (5)
