Pancreatic Disease Treatment in Phoenix
The pancreas is a part of the endocrine system and is the gland that is responsible for regulating insulin and blood glucose levels. It is also responsible for the excretion of the enzymes necessary to digest food properly. Disease of the pancreas is very serious and requires medical attention.
What Are the Most Common Pancreatic Diseases?
The pancreas plays an incredibly important role in managing the body’s digestive system. To test for pancreatic diseases, generally, doctors will use blood tests to detect enzyme levels in the bloodstream. Diagnostic imaging and biopsies are also possibilities. Generally, if there is a problem with the pancreas, it is one of the following conditions:
Diabetes
Diabetes is when the pancreas fails to produce the insulin necessary to digest food and manage blood sugars safely. The body’s blood sugar levels start to rise. This is called hyperglycemia. Symptoms include:
- Frequent urination
- Increased thirst and hunger
- Blurry vision
- Strong, fruity breath
If you have any of these symptoms, see an endocrinologist immediately.
Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. It is generally identified by abdominal pain, indigestion, and fever. Pancreatitis can be categorized into one of three categories, hereditary, acute and chronic.
Pancreatitis is often treated with fluids and pain medication. If it is severe enough, a patient may be admitted into an ICU to be monitored closely. Chronic pancreatitis has to be treated with nutrition therapy and possibly insulin.
Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is divided into two types of tumors:
- Exocrine Pancreatic Cancer
- Endocrine Pancreatic Cancer
Each category has different symptoms, risks, and are diagnosed differently. Exocrine tumors are more common than endocrine, but both present a very important risk.
Symptoms vary in each different type of cancer. Pancreatic cancer generally does not show symptoms in the early stages, which is why it is very important to get screened regularly. People with later-stages of pancreatic cancer may experience pain in the abdomen and lower-middle back, loss of appetite, brown urine, or jaundice.
Learn more about Pancreatic Cancer
Schedule a Pancreatic Disease Consultation
If you require surgery for your pancreatic disease, give Dignity Health Medical Group a call. Schedule an appointment today online using our secure form. We have offices in Chandler and Gilbert, and see patients from Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Tempe, Scottsdale, Gilbert, and the surrounding areas.
