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I had pancreatitis 2 years ago and since then have had periodic pain upper right abdomen and back. It isn't always right after eating. Many times it happens 3 or 4 hours after eating. I'm a 72 yo male without hall bladder. I also have a a lot of muscle problems plus neuropathy in legs feet and face. Doctor thinks I have auto immune condition. Could auto immune condition effect pancreas?
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Reefsider donald65422
Posted
Hi Donald, yes an auto immune condition can effect your pancreas. My diagnosis is in fact Auto Immune Chronic Pancreatitis.
I've never been a drinker because I was born with a rare metabolic dysfunction. Not to say I would have anyway, just saying. So it was a bit of a mystery when my pancreas showed calcifications and I displayed quite severe symptoms resulting in vitamin deficiencies leading to malnutrition and all the other classic signs.
I'm fortunate to have one of the most qualified pancreas specialists in the country so I'm monitored and confident with my treatment. I strongly suggest you find a gastroenterologist who specialises in the pancreas if you haven't already.
The thing is regardless of the label pancreatitis is treated and managed the same way. When having a flare ensure you reduce the size of your meals or only have nourishing liquids for a couple or 3 days to rest your pancreas when pain is bad. Low fat always of course, no alcohol, no cigarettes (the pancreas hates them and they can cause calcification). Take digestive enzymes such as Creon immediately prior to eating anything, they work a treat and may eliminate your pain. Working out the dose is a personal thing I've found, and when having a snack only take half usual dose.
Reduce or elimate red meat and anything else deemed difficult to digest and eat 4-6 small meals a day rather than the 3 we grew up doing. Try having your main meal at lunchtime but don't make it large and something small in the evening to take you through the night.
I still have my gall bladder but do have neuropathy and muscle issues too, you're not alone.
clivealive donald65422
Posted
Your neuropathy may be caused by a Vitamin B12 deficiency.
Get it and your Folate level checked by your doctor,
Anyone at any age, can become B12 deficient. Thus you need to be tested immediately if you develop the symptoms described in this chapter. However, certain people are at an elevated risk. They include the following:
Vegetarians, vegans and people eating macrobiotic diets.
People aged sixty and over
People who’ve undergone any gastric and/or intestinal surgery, including bariatric surgery for weight loss purposes (Gastric bypass).
People who regularly use proton-pump- inhibitors. H2 blockers, antacids, Metformin, and related diabetes drugs, or other medications, or infections such as h-pylori that can interfere with B12 absorption.
People who undergo surgeries or dental procedures involving nitrous oxide, or who use the drug recreationally.
People with a history of eating disorders (anorexia or bulimia).
People with a history of alcoholism.
People with a family history of pernicious anaemia.
People diagnosed with anaemia (including iron deficiency anaemia, sickle cell anaemia and thalassaemia).
People with Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, gluten enteropathy (celiac disease), Pancreatic insufficiency, or any other disease that cause malabsorption of nutrients.
People with autoimmune disorders (especially thyroid disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Grave’s disease) Type 1 diabetes, vitiligo, lupus, Addison’s disease, ulcerative colitis, infertility, acquired agammaglobulinemia, or a family history of these disorders.
Apart from your age and pancreatic insufficiency do you "see yourself" in any of the above people?
I am not a medically trained person but I've had Pernicious Anaemia (a form of B12 deficiency) for more than 46 years.
I wish you well.