Treatment for severe pancreatitis requires prompt medical attention. Common causes include biliary tract disease, alcoholism, and hyperlipidemia. Biliary tract diseases include gallstones obstructing the pancreatic duct; alcoholism causes pancreatic tissue damage; and hyperlipidemia increases the burden on the pancreas. Treatment includes fasting, intravenous fluid replacement, antibiotics, and surgical intervention if necessary.
1. Biliary tract disease is one of the main causes of severe pancreatitis. Gallstones or biliary tract infections can lead to pancreatic duct obstruction, preventing the normal drainage of pancreatic juice and causing pancreatitis. Treatment involves endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to relieve the obstruction, and cholecystectomy if necessary.
2. Alcohol abuse is another important cause. Long-term heavy drinking can damage pancreatic tissue and increase the risk of pancreatitis. Treatment requires abstinence from alcohol and the use of medications such as omeprazole to reduce gastric acid secretion and protect the pancreas.
3. Hyperlipidemia is also a common cause of severe pancreatitis. High levels of triglycerides in the blood increase the burden on the pancreas, triggering inflammation. Treatment involves reducing fat intake through diet, using lipid-lowering drugs such as atorvastatin, and, if necessary, plasma exchange.
4. Other causes include trauma, infection, and drug reactions. Trauma such as abdominal impact can cause pancreatic damage; infections such as viral infections can cause pancreatitis; and certain medications such as azathioprine can also cause pancreatitis. Treatment depends on the specific cause, such as the use of antiviral drugs or discontinuation of the relevant medication.
Treatment for severe pancreatitis depends on the specific cause, and timely medical attention is crucial. Through fasting, intravenous fluid replacement, antibiotics, and necessary surgical intervention, the condition can be effectively controlled, and complications reduced.