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Acute pancreatitis due to alcohol...

Posted , 4 users are following.

pete70517
pete70517

Hi !

I was diagnosed three months ago with Acute Pancreatitis. I used to drink wine. About two bottles of wine every week. Nothing else !  I thought that this was within the safe limits for alcohol consumption, so I was surprised when the doctor told me to quit drinking. I have, and it's not a problem as I was never truly addicted, in my opinion. So, what do you think?

I have to take various medications for high blood pressure, and these have warnings attached making it clear that that possible side affects might result in pancreatitis. My GP has changed one of them as a result, but the hospital doctors are adamant that my problems are due to alcohol. So, how can they tell? How do they know the difference between damage done to the pancreas by alcohol and damage done by medications? Anyone know?

Thanks for your help.

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • Reefsider
    Reefsider pete70517

    Posted

    HI Pete, sorry you have pancreatitis it's not something most people think about at all as they go about their daily lives but some of us get it even when we've never consumed alcohol.  Your weekly consumption doesn't sound like risky behaviour to me, in fact I'd bet some of those same doctors who are telling you you have pancreatitis as a result of your drinking consume at least the same amount during their week.

    I have another disease I was born with which can sometimes cause it.  My other disease has meant that I have been unable to tolerate alcohol ever and I was very upset when one doctor accused me (loudly and aggressively) of being an alcoholic after my pancreatitis diagnosis. 

    My gastro guy is great, he specialises in all things to do with the pancreas and he told me they don't always know why some people get pancreatitis and others don't.  They can test for certain things, ask about lifestyle choices, but sometimes it just is what it is and they get on with treating and managing the patient.

    Get yourself a decent gastroenterologist first up that should stop the nonsense.  Also stop drinking altogether not just for awhile, if your pancreatitis is so easily triggered now you've had one serious attack you could be susceptible to more episodes.  Also cut out fatty food, a low fat diet is the way to go. Digestive enzymes help a lot too. 

     

    • manda1030
      manda1030 Reefsider

      Posted

      Just wanted to say I totally agree with you!! Great advice in my opinion.
  • manda1030
    manda1030 pete70517

    Posted

    I went to a specialty clinic in Nebraska I have had CP 15+ years. He could Tell by the damage to my pancreas. That I had drank because it causes damage that genetics don't usually cause. I got it in my early 20's....so some of us may just be more likely to get it. I would listen. CP is life changing and a tough road. Best of luck.

    Manda

  • Woodywhite
    Woodywhite pete70517

    Posted

    Need to lay off alcohol to give your pancreas time to recover and smoking as well . Good advice but hard to adhere to

    Good luck Kevin

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