Canada Pharmacy Depot

Risk Factors for Pancreas Issues

Wednesday 10 November 2021
Pancreas
4 minute(s) read

Table of Contents


I. Common Pancreas Conditions

II. What Causes Pancreatitis?

III. Risk Factors for Pancreatitis

IV. How to Avoid Pancreatitis Complications

V. Buy Creon (pancreatic enzyme) Online


Common Pancreas Conditions

The pancreas is an organ in the abdomen that has two main functions. The exocrine function of the pancreas helps with digestion while the endocrine function regulates blood sugar levels. If the pancreas is not functioning properly, conditions such as cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer, and pancreatitis may occur. [1]

If you are diagnosed with a pancreas issue, your doctor may prescribe Creon or Viokace to relieve symptoms. These medications are made of enzymes that are normally produced by the pancreas. Creon and Viokace can improve digestion when the pancreas fails to produce enough enzymes on its own. Read on to learn more about common risk factors and causes for pancreatitis today. [2]

a blue and pink pill on a blue background

What Causes Pancreatitis?

If the digestive enzymes become activated while still in the pancreas, inflammation can occur. If this happens repeatedly, the pancreas may sustain damage, and scar tissue may form, causing loss of function. If the function of the pancreas is reduced, you may become at risk of diabetes or digestive problems. Common causes of pancreatitis include:

  • Obesity
  • Abdominal surgery
  • Cystic fibrosis
  • Infection
  • Injury to the abdomen
  • Alcoholism
  • Gallstones
  • High triglyceride levels in the blood
  • High calcium levels in the blood
  • Pancreatic cancer

If your doctor cannot find the cause of your pancreatitis, you have idiopathic pancreatitis. Pancreatitis may be acute or chronic. Common complications of pancreatitis include kidney failure, pancreatic infections, and breathing problems. To avoid complications of pancreatitis, it is important to know and take steps to reduce your risk. [1]

Risk Factors for Pancreatitis

Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption is bad for your overall health, but these two factors are especially detrimental to your pancreas. Studies show that nicotine damages the pathways in the cells of your pancreas, which can impair blood flow within this organ. [3] Compared to non-smokers, smokers are on average three times more likely to have chronic pancreatitis. Research also shows that those who drink four to five alcoholic beverages a day are also at an increased risk of pancreatitis. [1]

two hands holding beers during a sunset

Diabetes and obesity are also major risk factors for pancreatitis. Diabetes does not cause pancreatitis, but those with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk. This is because diabetes and pancreatitis are both related to poor insulin production. [4] Pancreatitis occurs in obese people more often because of their increased risk of gallstones (hardened bile caused by too much cholesterol). [5]

How to Avoid Pancreatitis Complications

Pancreatitis may lead to malnutrition because it reduces digestive enzymes, causing the body to process fewer nutrients from the food you eat. Pancreatitis may also cause diabetes by damaging the insulin-producing cells in your pancreas. Long-term inflammation in your pancreas can increase your risk of pancreatic cancer. Pancreatitis can also make you more prone to pancreatic infections, which are serious and require medical treatment. [1]

To avoid these complications, you can keep your pancreas healthy by eating a low-fat diet and avoiding alcohol. If you are feeling unwell, clear liquids and bland food may ease the burden on your pancreas. You may also need to be wary of certain pain medications, which can damage the pancreas if taken incorrectly. Talk to your doctor for more ways to boost the health of your pancreas and avoid complications of pancreatitis. [6]

a bowl of apple sauce

Buy Creon (pancreatic enzyme) Online

Creon (pancreatic enzyme) contains pancrelipase, a combination of lipase, protease, and amylase. These three substances are crucial proteins for proper digestion. Before taking Creon, be aware that this medication may cause side effects like stomach pain, rectal itching, and changes in your blood sugar levels. If you experience joint pain or swelling, you may require medical assistance. [2] Creon may also be used after a pancreatectomy (pancreas surgery). To buy Creon online, visit Canada Pharmacy Depot today.

Depending on your condition, your doctor may prescribe Viokace (pancrelipase). This medication takes the digestive enzymes from a pig pancreas to help break down and digest fats, starches, and proteins in your food. Talk to your doctor to discuss if Creon or Viokace is right for you. These oral medications should be taken regularly with a healthy diet for the most benefit. [7]

The content provided in this article is based on thorough research and in some cases, reviewed by a medical professional. Our goal for the information is to provide helpful, general health informational. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.