Chronic pancreatitis is a long-standing inflammation of the pancreas that alters the organ’s normal structure and functions. Let’s explore it further:

1. Overview:

   • The pancreas is an organ located behind your stomach.

   • It makes enzymes, which are special proteins that help digest your food.

   • It also produces hormones that control the level of sugar in your bloodstream.

   • Chronic pancreatitis occurs when your pancreas becomes inflamed and doesn’t improve over time.

   • The inflammation leads to permanent damage and scarring (fibrosis) of the pancreas.

2. Causes:

   • The most common cause is long-term alcohol abuse (approximately 70% of cases).

   • Other causes include:

     • Autoimmune disease: When your body mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues.

     • Narrow pancreatic duct: The tube that carries enzymes from the pancreas to the small intestine.

     • Blockage of the pancreatic duct: By gallstones or pancreatic stones.

     • Cystic fibrosis: A hereditary disease causing mucus buildup in the lungs.

     • Genetics, high blood calcium levels, and high triglyceride fats in the blood.

3. Symptoms:

   • Pain: Often in the upper abdomen or back.

   • Digestive problems: Difficulty digesting food due to lower enzyme levels.

   • Malnutrition and diabetes can result from impaired digestion and hormone regulation.

4. Risk Factors:

   • Alcohol abuse, smoking, and family history increase the risk.

   • Chronic pancreatitis is more common in men and typically develops between ages 30 and 40.

Remember to seek medical advice if you experience symptoms of chronic pancreatitis. Proper management at Rajarhat Pain Clinic Kolkata can help alleviate pain and prevent complication