Board-certified gastroenterologists and 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 us or book an appointment online today.
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, providing fuel for the tissues throughout the body.
How are gallstones formed?
Gallstones are small mineral deposits 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 stored in the gallbladder. As digestive fluids flow through the gallbladder, cholesterol, fats, and salts can stick together, producing a gallstone. Gallstones 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 a sudden inflammation, most commonly caused by heavy alcohol consumption or gallstones. Symptoms include intense abdominal pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and increased heart rate. Acute pancreatitis can be life-threatening and requires immediate care. Chronic pancreatitis causes similar symptoms, but the abdominal pain may be less severe and more like a constant dull ache. Chronic pancreatitis may indicate severe pancreatic damage where it’s no longer functioning properly, often triggered by long-term alcohol intake.
To schedule a consultation, call the Gastro Center of Maryland or book an appointment online today.
