The pancreas is a small organ and a gland that sits under the left side of the stomach. It produces enzymes for digestion and releases hormones called glucagon and insulin, which are necessary for sugar metabolism. Endocrine and exocrine tissue make up your pancreas. The endocrine part produces hormones like glucagon and insulin. Acini are tiny sacs containing digestive enzymes produced by the exocrine tissue. Pancreatic disorders can cause this process to be disturbed, which can have potentially fatal consequences.

Insufficient enzyme production and poor digestion are the major causes of pancreatic diseases. Damage to the pancreas, hormone deficiencies, obesity, other hormonal issues, or digestive issues like celiac disease that impair the body’s capacity to digest food effectively may also be the reason. Genetic and environmental factors can both contribute to pancreatic disorders. Genetic factors include genes such as those for cystic fibrosis or familial hypercholesterolemia, that predispose one to pancreatic disease. Smoking, diabetes, alcoholism, etc increases the risk of pancreatic disorders.

People over the age of 50 are at a higher chance of having pancreatic cancer, as are those who have diabetes, chronic alcoholism, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or renal illness. A person with a weakened immune system is more likely to have pancreatic cancer than someone without such a condition.

In this condition, the pancreas becomes inflamed. Acute pancreatitis is sudden, severe pancreatitis. People who drink alcohol frequently get acute pancreatitis because alcohol can irritate the pancreas. Gallstones or eating a meal with a lot of fat and sugar can also cause acute pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis can be caused because of untreated pancreatitis, resulting in pancreatic scarring. Diabetes, pancreatic cancer, and pancreatic fibrosis result from scarring of the organ. See a top gastroenterologist if you have any of these symptoms.

Tumors that develop in the pancreas are referred to as pancreatic neoplasms. Pancreatic adenocarcinoma and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) are the most prevalent forms. Tumor in the pancreas that is malignant leads to pancreatic cancer. The cells termed alpha cells that create glucagon and somatostatin are frequent locations for the early development of a pancreatic tumor. Usually, the cells that produce insulin are where these tumors start.

Chronic alcohol use, autoimmune illnesses, genetic predisposition, viral infections, and certain drugs can severely affect your pancreas’ capacity to function normally. Dr. Kapil Sharma is the leading gastroenterologist in New Delhi, GK. For a comprehensive treatment facility, book an appointment now!