Hi, Since there are no other forums for pancreas issues, I hope you don't mind me posting here. Back in 2003, I had acute pancreatitis due to alcoholism, had an endoscopy which showed I'd lost 2/3 of my pancreas (I was never told which bits). Never had any pancreatitis thereafter, despite still being an alcoholic.
By 2010, I had kicked the booze, but was diagnosed by symptoms and a blood glucose test with reactive hypoglycemia. It was never investigated further. I now eat no sugar and low carb in general.
For the past 3 years, I've had some other health problems (neurological, plus my B12 serum levels are over double the highest threshold level and my red blood count showed lower volume, but enlarged and badly formed cells), which I think may be due to my damaged pancreas I have learned that the pancreas and gut have many more functions than just digestion.
My insulin and glucogen were never initially tested since I never woke up ravenous. But what I never told the Drs (as I didn't know any better) is that I can go for hours in the morning without eating as long as I'm seated. But if I start moving around, I urgently need to eat.
I've heard that as damaged pancreas tissue grows back it can cause problems, including hyperinsulinoma, overpopulation of beta cells and tumors related to glucogen. I don't know what to do exactly. Do I ask for an extended insulin fasting test (with movement included), is there a way to get your glucogen checked? Is there any way of knowing what my pancreas may actually look like these days without an endoscopy? Should I get referred back to endocrinology?
Sorry for the long read. Thanks anyone who can help.
Pancreatic Cancer Survivor
Advice please as we feel we are being dismissed! Im new here.
My lovely husband, Kevin
MUM