Pancreas
The Human
Pancreas
The pancreas is a gland behind the lower part of the stomach
that is about one inch in diameter and six-to-eight inches
long. It's grayish pink in color and is sometimes called the
"hidden organ" because it is located deep in the abdomen behind
the stomach.
It has been described as being shaped somewhat like a
hand.
Pancreas Functions
The pancreas performs several functions in the body. It
secretes enzymes into the small intestine through a tube called
the pancreatic duct. These enzymes (primarily insulin and
glucagon) that help break down and digest food, including
proteins, carbohydrates and fats. The pancreas plays an
important role in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and
turning glucose into energy.
The pancreas can be transplanted from a donor into a patient
with diabetes, and is frequently done for diabetes patients who
are suffering from kidney failure. The new pancreas gives the
patient an opportunity to become independent of insulin
injections.
Pancreas damage is a serious matter because the pancreas is
a storage repository for digestive enzymes. Any puncture of the
pancreas or injury to it necessitates quick medical
attention.
Pancreas Diseases and Conditions
Pancreas cancer Also called pancreatic cancer. It has been
described as a "silent" disease because there are usually no
symptoms in the early stage and it can be hard to diagnose.
Diabetes mellitus As mentioned above, the pancreas produces
insulin and any disruption or malfunction in the production of
insulin can have serious medical consequences. The pancreas is
a major factor in the pathophysiology of both major types of
diabetes mellitus.
Pancreatitis There are two forms of pancreatitis, which
occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed.
Acute pancreatitis is characterized by a rapid onset
Symptoms include severe pain in the abdomen and sometimes the
back; there might also be nausea, vomiting, fever and rapid
pulse. Acute pancreatitis often results from alcoholism or
gallstones.
Chronic pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas that has
been ongoing for some length of time. It generally occurs when
digestive enzymes attack and destroy the pancreas and nearby
tissues. The result is scarring of the tissues and pain.
Typically, years of alcohol abuse are the cause. However, a
chronic form of pancreatitis can also be triggered when the
patient has suffered an acute case.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency Also known as EPI. It's
occurs when the pancreas cannot produce the proper levels of
digestive enzymes. As a result, the body doesn't digest food
properly. This condition frequently occurs in patients with
cystic fibrosis.
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Symptoms of Pancreas Problems
The most obvious symptom is pain in the upper abdominal
area. Other symptoms include fatty, foul-smelling stools. As
mentioned above, vomiting, fever and nausea are also common
when a pancreas problem exists.
Summary
The pancreas is subject to a number of diseases and
conditions, some of which are the result of the actions and
lifestyle of the patient.
In the last few decades, a number of effective tests for
pancreatic conditions have been developed, and currently there
are good treatment programs can be prescribed by your
doctor.
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