The pancreas is involved with the production and secretion of many enzymes that help the digestive system break food down. Pancreatitis is the result of the pancreas becoming inflamed, which can lead to indigestion and abdominal pain. One way in which the pancreas can become inflamed is as a result of long-term alcohol abuse, leading to alcoholic pancreatitis.
Pancreatic Stabilization
The first aspect of treating alcoholic pancreatitis is to relieve the pain and to give the pancreas the ability to heal, which requires a two- to three-day hospital stay. During this time the patient cannot eat, because the digestive process will only cause additional inflammation to the pancreas. Instead, nutrition will be given intravenously. As the pancreas heals, the body may become dehydrated, so the IV also supplies additional fluids. Finally, because alcoholic pancreatitis can be very painful, physicians may prescribe pain medication.
Alcoholism Treatment
Once the symptoms of pancreatitis have subsided, it is essential to address the underlying cause of the pancreatitis. In the case of alcoholic pancreatitis, this involves treating the patient's alcohol abuse. Physicians may recommend that the patient enroll in a substance abuse treatment program, possibly involving a support group. Continuing to drink will only cause the pancreatitis to come back and can lead to serious problems, including pancreatic cancer and liver failure, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Long Term Management
Because chronic pancreatitis can be painful, many patients need long-term pain management either in the form of pain medication or surgery to block the nerves that send pain signals from the pancreas to the brain. Patients may also have deficient secretion of digestive enzymes, requiring enzyme supplements to be taken with meals. Finally, physicians may recommend dietary changes, emphasizing low-fat foods, to help prevent further problems.
