An uncared for pancreas can develop acute pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas. Upper abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, sometimes accompanied by fever and an increased pulse rate, are typical symptoms. The attack may be experienced as a sudden, intense pain or it may begin gradually during a meal and then grow worse with additional food intake. In the diagnosis of pancreatitis, physicians check for high levels of the enzyme amylase in the blood, as well as for changes in electrolyte balance.

Chronic pancreatitis, which sometimes develops following an acute attack, is most often due to alcohol abuse. Chronic pancreatitis often leads to malnutrition and weight loss. Enzyme secretion is impaired, resulting in poor digestion and assimilation of nutrients. Persons with this condition are also at risk of developing diabetes if the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas have been damaged. Research has shown that the most effective treatment for acute pancreatitis is abstaining from solid foods for several days. If the attack is severe and the patient is hospitalized, fluids are administered intravenously. The best way to prevent future attacks and the development of chronic pancreatitis is to avoid alcohol and to eat a natural, whole-foods diet low in hydrogenated fats and high in raw vegetables and fruits.  Read more: http://www.alive.com/149a1a2.php?subject_bread_cramb=851

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