Posted 5/11/2012 8:33 PM (GMT 0)
I just read a thread on pancreatitis caused by medications. This can happen, yes.
However, I want to also inform you all that pancreatitis is often a "bed-fellow" to UC.
My GI here in Minnesota, Dr. Shepela (Dr. Intestine) at the UofMN and works with HealthPartners, told me this.
I also have the unfortunate situation where I have Chronic Pancreatitis along with my UC.
I asked my Dr. Intestine WHY no one has ever told me this before. He just said he didn't know why
more GI's don't recognize this. I've had pancreatitis MANY times when I wasn't even diagnosed yet
with UC and was on NO medications.
I can also tell you from much experience that SOMETIMES your blood enzymes won't even move a notch
when you are in a full blown pancreas flare!! You get the blasting pain and all that goes with it, just your pancreas is so depleted
that it can't even mount a response. It's happened to me and to many others I know in this same
boat.
Pancreatitis is difficult to diagnose properly as the blood enzyme levels drop usually within 12 hrs of the acute
pain onset. Usually, but not always.
I see Dr.'s Arain and Freeman at the UofMN for my pancreas and sphincter of Odi dysfunction.....and these three doctors
really are some of the country's BEST. I know, I've searched for years for answers.
Anyway, just my input to keep an eye on yourselves for upper GI distress that makes you vomit, have gnawing pain
or just terrible pain that no one can put a finger on. There are a few different ways to diagnose pancreatitis flares so
don't just depend on joeshmoe GI's who won't or can't think out of their box.
If you'd like more information, I'm happy to share.