In rare and severe cases, an individual may experience dehydration, low blood pressure, organ failure, and shock.
Less common medications that can cause pancreatitis include: Azathioprine, Thiazide, Dideoxyinosine, Sulfasalazine, Valproic acid, and Pentamidine. [5] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source A family history of pancreatitis increases your chances of developing it. Rare medical conditions that can predispose people to pancreatitis include: cystic fibrosis, hypercalcemia, hyperparathyroidism, hypertriglyceridemia, and pancreatic cancer. Thus, preventing pancreatic cancer and other underlying conditions can also help prevent pancreatitis. [6] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
Also note any preexisting conditions that apply to you and remember to share that information with your physician.
Start by visiting your primary care physician (PCP). Make sure to arrive early to your appointment and bring your list of symptoms. If you don’t have a doctor, go to a walk-in clinic.
If a doctor gives you a referral to one, make the appointment immediately. If you know you’re at risk for pancreatitis and want to see a gastroenterologist without a referral, check with your insurance company to see if the visit will be covered.
You can usually go directly to a lab on the same day without making an appointment. [9] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Blood tests may not always be specific to issues with your pancreas; routine tests may be ordered to evaluate your overall health.
This test is readily available and relatively affordable. If you have a history of gallstones, your doctor may choose to start with this test.
If you are claustrophobic, you may have the option to take medication that will help to sedate or calm you for this procedure.
”Which test results indicated that I have pancreatitis?” ”Are you completely sure this is pancreatitis, or is there something else we need to rule out?” ”What are my treatment options?” ”Do the treatments have any side effects?” ”Can I make any lifestyle changes to help my recovery?”
You can always go back to your PCP or walk-in clinic for a new referral. Or call your health insurance company to find information about other specialists in your plan. In life-threatening situations, it’s important to avoid delays. If you’re hospitalized for your condition, you’ll have the chance to consult with multiple doctors once at the hospital.
