I developed EPI after having Covid. In August of 2021. My fist attempt at eating after my fever broke sent my to the emergency room with sever pain. At the time they suspected pancreatitis, but because I was still recovering from covid they ran other tests, told me I had covid pneumonia and sent me home. Three months later and many test later, my GI doctor's diagnosis was EPI. I have pain every day, especially if I eat, regardless of what I eat. Yes, I good days and bad days. On my good days I can eat, small meals only,low fat low fiber, no raw vegetables. I have to pause during the meals to allow the pain to calm before completing the meal.
Then, I pray.i pray that the pain doesn't get double me over. I pray that I don't have to run to the toilet within the next hour. If I don't, it is a good day.
I have been living like this for almost three years. I am struggling with mental health directly related to this health condition. I wonder what my future looks like. Any tips on pain management and mental health support?
Written by
Ethelknows
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Ethyl, I am so sorry to hear of your situation. So difficult. I landed in the H with horrible stomach pain after the first two COVID vaccines. That pain is like non other. I am eating plant based whole food (low fat for sure) and hanging in there. I will send positive thoughts your way Ethyl. Barb
I'm sorry life is cruel for you. I have EPI and chronic pancreatitis. I cannot take the supplements as they are pork based and I have a reaction to pork. I make myself aware of my diet and I am prescribed maximum immoduim a day to control the runs. I also don't drink alcohol and rarely did pre pancreatitis. Stress is by biggest problem as there is a direct link from the brain to the gut. My Gastro dept does have a link to a counsellor for mental issues dealing with any gut problems and I could make an appointment if I needed this support. Free in the NHS.
I know this can be controversial for some (and the wrong advice for some), but when I'm experiencing pain, I've found that 2-3 days of "resting" my pancreas can really help. For me, that means no solid foods for at least the first day, sometimes for two or three depending on how bad it is. I'll drink water and bone broth only. Then I go back to food over a day or two, eating mostly rice (not brown rice since it's more difficult to digest) made with bone broth. For the stage I'm in with my pancreas damage, that break is usually enough for me to stop the pain cycle.
And on mental health... That can be trickier (and I'm so genuinely sorry you're having struggles!)
I work with a nutritionist that is focused on a healthy relationship with food instead of counting calories or enforcing restrictions. I have a therapist who I make an appt with when I need to extra support (it's more of an "on call" situation instead of weekly or even monthly appts). I took Wellbutrin last winter too and that helped get me through the winter. I know I need to do meditation or some sort of mindfulness, but that aspect eludes me for now.
I've found that a good general practitioner who can oversee your health as a whole is critical. It's not easy to find that match, but worth the time to investigate if your GP isn't someone you feel you can entrust every aspect of your health to and speak to honestly about your concerns -- and who will LISTEN.
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