Chronic Pancreatitis

It’s great that you have been keeping your CP under control for the past two years but if your symptoms are acting up then you either need to figure out what is triggering it or go to your pancreas specialist and have tests done. As you’re aware CP is managed through a low fat/carb lifestyle but even with that the pancreas can degenerate (not saying it is). Foods are horrible triggers and as time goes on, what you may have been able to eat, your pancreas may not be able to digest anymore. Even though you’re on enzymes you may need to up your dose. The nausea is an everyday symptom for me but my pancreas is so bad I have to take a prescription for my nausea and it still doesn’t take it away. What helps me is mint, chamomile and ginger teas. I’ll also get mint candy to help throughout the day (reminds me of morning sickness). It also helps to eat six small meals rather than three big meals as it’s easier for your stomach to digest. You may want to see a dietitian too because you can develop food intolerances at any age. You can also try resting your pancreas. You do this by not eating solid foods for a couple days (drink broth or Ensure/Boost shakes) then slowly incorporate bland foods and see if your symptoms are still there. If they are then continue with liquids if not then continue with foods. The key is to get ahead of the attack. I hope you feel better soon.

I agree with Shortie79 regarding upping your Creon dose and the possibility that your pancreas function has decreased a little.

Your best Creon dose is found by increasing the amount you take (immediately before food). There's no set dose we're all different. I take 4 x 25000 before a main meal, 3 before a smaller meal, 2 or 3 before snacks depending what it is. Finding the right dose for me took awhile however there was obvious improvement from the outset. Creon isn't a drug per se so don't worry about overdosing although keep your doc posted about your increases. No-one can prescribe a dose accurately really, your body determines how much it needs. Make sure you drink more water as Creon can cause constipation. You'll know when the amount is right. Try each increase for a week before changing.

Oh, in case you aren't aware, one should take more Creon if your meal extends beyond 30 minutes of taking it. My pancreas specialist reminds whenever I see him. Long lunches/dinners do occur especially around the holidays. I usually take another 2 then. You'll soon learn what works for you.

The other med I take is Pantoprazole, a PPI which fixed my ongoing nausea. I'm allergic to anti-emetics so was curious about how they worked. They're basically an antacid which is processed up in the oesophagus (from memory) and reduce acid. They work a treat for me. I hope my experience helps you a little.