Biliary Pancreatitis
Imagine a severe, stabbing pain in your upper abdomen that radiates to your back. Don't let the pain take over.
This condition occurs when a gallstone blocks the pancreatic duct, causing severe inflammation and damage to the pancreas. It requires immediate medical attention.
What Causes It?
Gallstones
The most common cause. A gallstone blocks the bile duct, backing up bile and triggering inflammation.
Other Factors
High triglycerides, obesity, and a strong family history can also contribute.
Are You At Risk?
- ✓History of gallstones or gallbladder issues
- ✓Overweight or obese
- ✓Rapid weight loss
- ✓High-fat diet
- ✓Family history of gallstones
Symptoms & Risks of Ignoring
Watch For:
- • Sudden, intense upper abdominal pain
- • Nausea, vomiting, and fever
- • Jaundice (yellowing skin/eyes)
Complications:
- • Severe pancreatic damage & infection
- • Organ failure in severe cases
- • 50-70% risk of recurrence without treatment
Diagnosis & Management
Take Control of Your Health
Immediate Care
Hospitalization is required for severe cases, requiring pain management and close monitoring.
ERCP
An advanced endoscopic procedure to remove bile duct stones and relieve the obstruction.
Surgery
Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is typically needed to prevent the 50-70% recurrence risk.
Medications & Lifestyle
Pain management, antibiotics, IV fluids. Long-term: low-fat diet, weight management, and avoiding alcohol.
How It's Diagnosed
Blood Tests
Elevated pancreatic enzymes (amylase/lipase), LFTs, and CBC.
Imaging
Ultrasound, CT scan, MRCP, and Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) to detect small stones.
Advanced
ERCP for direct diagnosis and immediate treatment of bile duct stones.
Myths vs Facts
Myth: Only heavy drinkers get pancreatitis.
Fact: Gallstones are a major cause of pancreatitis, completely independent of alcohol.
Myth: I'll be fine once the pain goes away.
Fact: Without removing the gallbladder (cholecystectomy), the recurrence risk is 50-70%. It can lead to life-threatening complications.
Myth: ERCP is a highly dangerous procedure.
Fact: ERCP is generally a safe, minimally-invasive, and highly effective procedure for removing bile duct stones.
Comprehensive Care
Expertise
Dr. Santhosh R, a leading gastroenterologist specializing in pancreatic & biliary disorders.
Advanced Technology
Latest endoscopic and imaging tools (ERCP, EUS) for precise treatment under one roof.
Tender Loving Care
Compassionate, personalized care from emergency treatment to elective surgery.