Not sure if I have pancreatitis

[d0ttysslave]

Hello,

I went to the GP because I was experiencing breathlessness and a pain just under my left breast. I thought it may be something to do with my heart. A blood test revealed elevated pancreatic enzymes and a CT scan is now being arranged.

I have read about pancreatitis, and this may be a possibility. However, my symptoms are so mild. The pain, although uncomfortable, does not make me vomit. I do feel constantly bloated, and some foods do make me feel quite unwell (as if my stomach has turned into a cauldron). These foods include highly acidic or spicey food.

I know no one can diagnose, but pancreatitis seems like such an awful condition, is it possible to have it, and have very mild symptoms?

[Linda_MC Partner]

Hi, yes it is definitely possible to have pancreatitis with mild symptoms. Bloating, a feeling of fullness when you eat, and similar digestive discomfort and all symptoms along with abdominal pain which can range from mild to severe and can be intermittent to constant. Getting the rest of the diagnostic tests is a good start. Do you have any family history? Have you had genetic testing? Often when symptoms are mild pancreatitis can be managed with diet. Let us know how you’re doing and if we can answer other questions. Thanks for reaching out!

[d0ttysslave in reply to Linda_MC]

Thank you,

I should imagine that the CT scan will take place fairly soon because I have had a preliminary blood test for the scan. There is no family history of pancreatitis, although my father had gall stones when he was in his late eighties. Hopefully, I will have some answers in the near future.

[d0ttysslave in reply to d0ttysslave]

Just a quick update. I am still waiting for a CT scan, but due to the symptoms becoming a little worse, the GP arranged for an ultrasound test to be arranged. I had this last week, but I have not heard anything back, so I assume nothing serious was found.

I think this might just be something I have to live with.

[Signingfun]

I agree, mild symptoms are possible. It's a good thing that you are having mild symptoms. Hopefully, since your symptoms are mild your pancreas will not become damaged. I'm impressed that your doctor is actually working with you this well. A large complaint from pancreas patients is that doctors do not take their symptoms seriously.

Thanks for the update. Unfortunately, everything about pancreatitis takes time... testing, test results, the pancreas itself settling down, etc. Remember to take it one step at a time and find out what works for you.

Also, here are some good resources: Mission: Cure, The National Pancreas Foundation and Ariel Precision Medicine. I have found that these websites have up to date information. Otherwise, there is a lot of misinformation on the internet.

[d0ttysslave]

Thank you very much for the reply. I am hoping that I will have some more certainty in the near future. The ultrasound has been done and I go for the CT scan on Thursday. I will look on the sites you have recommended as well.