Pancreatitis is a painful condition marked by inflammation of the pancreas, a vital organ which is associated with the production of various enzymes and hormones responsible for the smooth functioning of the digestive system. The inflammation happens when there is congestion in the flow of digestive enzymes and these enzymes mistakenly attack the very tissues that produce them. Due to this, the person suffering from this condition may feel a discomfort in the abdominal region.
If left untreated for a long period of time, pancreatitis can lead to the decline of the ability of the pancreas produce normal quantities of digestive enzymes and hormones, thus causing malabsorption of nutrients and often resulting in diseases such as diabetes.
Types of Pancreatitis
Acute Pancreatitis
This is the more common type of pancreatitis. It is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas which is associated with the discomfort that ranges from mild pain to moderate. Some of its causes are gallstones, alcohol abuse, an injury to the pancreas, excessive fats called triglycerides in the blood, viral infections, and cystic fibrosis.
Symptoms
- Abdominal pain that radiates to your back
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Rapid pulse
- Swollen and tender abdomen that feels worse after eating
Chronic Pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis is a condition wherein the pancreas becomes permanently damaged from inflammation. This can cause scarring and can make the pancreas unable to function properly. Some of its causes are long-term alcohol misuse, smoking, a problem with the immune system, causing it to attack the pancreas, and an inherited genetic mutation disrupting the functions of the pancreas.
Symptoms
- Fatty, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
- Recurrent or even constant abdominal pain, which may be severe
- Loss of the functionality of the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas
- Steady unintentional weight loss caused by the poor absorption of nutrients required by the body
- Diabetes
Home Remedies to Relieve Pancreatic Pain
There are some natural remedies that you can try to ease the pain and discomfort associated with the disease.
Consume Turmeric
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties due to its curcumin content. Studies have found that turmeric can fight different kinds of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. Curcumin can also help lessen pancreas issue and other organ injuries by inhibiting the release of an inflammatory marker.
Boil 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder in 1 glass of milk or 2 glasses of water. Drink this twice daily.
Drink Ginger Tea
Ginger has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects thus making ti an effective remedy against inflammation in the pancreas and in soothing the pain.
Reduce pain by drinking ginger tea. Simply peel and slice a ½ inch-long piece of ginger root and it in 1 cup of hot water. Cover it, let it steep for 10 minutes, and then strain it. Drink the tea while it is still warm. Optionally, you can honey for added taste.
Drink Apple Cider Vinegar
The anti-inflammatory properties of apple cider vinegar helps reduce abdominal pain related to pancreatitis. Moreover, it also reduces the thickness of the bile, thereby preventing the formation of stones in the gall bladder (one of the critical causes of acute pancreatitis).
To reap its benefits you should mix 1 tablespoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar in 1 cup of warm water and then stir in 1 teaspoon each of lemon juice and honey. Drink the mixture two times a day.
Apply Hot Compress
The warmth o the compress can effectively provide relief for upper abdominal pain which is due to pancreatitis. It can help alleviate the inflammation and relax your abdominal muscles in order to reduce pain.
Simply prepare hot water and wrap it in a small towel and place it on the painful area for 5 to 10 minutes. Repeat as needed.
You may also enjoy a warm bath or shower for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day to relieve stomach pain.
Along with these natural remedies, you should also limit your alcohol consumption, get plenty of exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and stick to a balanced eating plan.
