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Gallstones & Pancreatic Disease Specialist

Gastro Center of Maryland -  - Gastroenterologist

Gastro Center of Maryland

Board-certified gastroenterologists and staff staff at Gastro Center of Maryland, treat health conditions that affect the pancreas, gallbladder and bile ducts like gallstones. Gastro Center of Maryland offers services to patients who live in the greater DMV area. To schedule a consultation, call 410-290-6677 or book an appointment online today! 

Gallstones & Pancreatic Disease Q & A

What does the pancreas do?

The pancreas is a small organ located next to the liver and behind the stomach. As part of the digestive tract, the pancreas is responsible for releasing numerous enzymes and other acids that work to break down the foods that make their way through the stomach and into the small intestine. One of its other main functions is to release insulin. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the amount of sugar or glucose in the blood. Regulating the blood sugar level works to provide fuel for the tissues throughout the body. Glucose is what the body burns during physical activity.

How are gallstones formed?

Gallstones are small mineral deposits that are made from cholesterol, fats, and salts. The gallbladder lies next to the pancreas and both work together to release enzymes and digestive fluids that help break down foods during digestion. Bile is one of these digestive fluids that is stored in the gallbladder. As the digestive fluids flow through the gallbladder, the cholesterol, fats, and salts that are in the bile can begin to stick together producing a gallstone. A gallstone can range in size from a grain of sand to an apricot.  When a gallstone grows too large, it can block the bile duct and cause an infection. If the gallstone does not break up on its own, it may need to be removed along with the gallbladder.

What is pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. It can be either acute or chronic. Acute pancreatitis is defined as a sudden inflammation of the pancreas. The most common causes are heavy alcohol consumption and gallstones. Symptoms include intense abdominal pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate.  Acute pancreatitis can be life threatening condition and care should be sought immediately.

Chronic pancreatitis causes similar symptoms except the abdominal pain may be less severe and more like a constant dull ache.  Chronic pancreatitis may indicate severe damage the pancreas where it’s no longer functioning properly. Long-term alcohol intake can cause chronic pancreatitis and irritate the pancreas triggering flare-ups.

Custom testimonials


  • "Everyone at the office is wonderful"

    —Anne S.

  • "The Annapolis office was a delight to visit. Everyone answered my questions and calmed my fears. I have no problem with my doctor conducting my procedure in a few weeks."

    —GRETCHEN H.

  • "I have been happy with the staff and care I've received here so far satisfied with my overall experience"

    —BONNIE K.

  • "Highly recommend Dr. Rosenbloom. I went to see him with some concerns and had a ton of anxiety and fear. "

    —BRETT C.

  • "All of the staff are really nice and helpful. Colleen Abell is so easy to talk to, she listens to what you have to say and is determined to help with the any concerns ..."

    —CRISTINA R

  • "Dr. Rosenbloom is the best . He takes the time to listen and after suffering for 3 yrs going back and forth to my primary. Dr . Rosenbloom figured out exactly what I ..."

    —MICHELLE P

  • "Very friendly each and everyone is ready to help you at every step. I love going there."

    —ASHVIN S.

  • "Been a patient for about a year now. Dr. Castillo is fantastic, along with Colleen. She was very attentive to my concerns and showed a lot of compassion. Would highly ..."

    —ANGELA O.

 

 

OUR LOCATIONS

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Columbia

7120 Minstrel Way, Suite #100, Columbia, MD 21405

410-290-6677

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Olney

3407 Olandwood Court, Suite #102, Olney, MD 20832

410-290-6677

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Riverdale

6502 Kenilworth Avenue, Suite #100, Riverdale, MD 20737

410-290-6677

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Timonium / Lutherville

1212 York Rd, Suite B201, Lutherville, MD 21093

410-290-6677

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