I have a loved one (boyfriend sounds so high schoolish) suffering from pancreatitis. He is 48 yrs old, not due to alcohol, gall bladder removed April 14th, he is a tennis player, etc… His first pancreatic attack was on Mar. 3rd, 2008 - since then he has been in and out of the hospital, including ICU in the beginning - total 6 weeks. He’s been on TPN for 5 weeks…lost 47 lbs., yet lipaze is at 960. No pain! He has had lots of cat scans and two ercp’s (last one they did not put the die in.) We are in Huntington Beach, CA. Does anyone know who the best doctors are in this area? Want to believe our doctors are, but so unsure. They want him to start back on water, jello, etc. and “see” if the duct is repaired - if not they will have to put in a “long” stint - which they said was like threading a needle from an arms length away. Any advice is appreciated - knew nothing about the pancreas before this happened and realizing it is the most underappreciated organ we have! Thanks for your advice and prayers to all of you suffering from this.
Welcome to this site. I can’t help you with doctors’names–wish I could. I use the Mayo Clinic in MN. This is a great group of people and someone should be able to help you. After a bout of pancreatitis it is not unusual to be started on clear liquids. How did they repair the duct? Tell your sweetie you will remain in my prayers. Betsy
Thank you for your note. The duct has not been repaired yet…they are waiting to see if he can tolerate water, jello, etc. After 5 weeks on TPN he starts on water in 2 days. Thank you for your prayers.
Betsy,
Thanks so much for your response. I am consulting w/ another doctor on Monday. They can’t repair the second opening for some reason. Checking in to that. Yes, I was on liquids in the hospital and find when the pain gets really bad, liquids help a lot. This site has been a Godsend to me! I have been learning a lot and feel so much support. I am praying for you and all others on this site as well.
Thanks so much for your prayers.
Jackie
Welcome to the website.
Go to ucpancreas.org. Send an email and ask them who they would recommend in your part of the state. I did that and got good results. It may take a couple of days.
They do pancreatic research and have a lot of information. They are very helpful.
God Bless and Keep the Faith,
Vonnie
Thanks so much! Jackie
thank you for sharing the site!