Introduction

[Chloe551]

Hi all,

so glad I found this forum. I am a 63 years old female from Switzerland. After decades of intermittent digestive problems, I was diagnosed with Chronic Pancreatitis / EPI in 2018. I know that I am lucky, as I have no pain at all. I have accustomed quite well in my new life with certain restrictions: I do not go out for lunches / dinners because - despite taking enzymes - I never know what happens after the meals😀. For the same reason, I am reluctant to leave the house for longer periods of time. I have developed a certain anxiety which is certainly not helpful. Otherwise, I can cope quite well and have a fulfilling life, walking my dog 4 times a day, doing regular weight training and reading a lot.

Looking forward to exchange with you all and wishing you all the best.

[Roxiewendy]

Hello! I know what you are saying. I feel the same way about going out. I'm recently diagnosed with EPI. Thought I was having gallbladder attacks but it was pancreatic attacks. It's a new way of life. I can only see my G.I. every 2 months so I have so many questions. Just this morning after breakfast, after using the bathroom, I have a belly ache and feel lousy.

[Jackie1947 in reply to Roxiewendy]

I'm the same Pancreatitis but I can't take the supplements as I'm intolerant. I do my best watching what I eat and have prescribed immoduim to control the bowel. I get out and about now. It took a while due to anxiety but with the help of my hospital counsellor I've relaxed and at 77 I don't want fear to control my life. It's not surprising that anxiety hits the gut as there is a direct link in the brain. Talking therapies is an excellent way to handle stress.

[Beekepper]

Hi Chloe,

Had my diagnosis 4 years ago with EPI. I was wondering if you could help or you know more information. I get anxiety about what the future will hold. All the literature is full of doom and gloom. Doctors aren't helpful with prognosis. Do you know what I can expect or is this unclear for you also? Cheers

[Chloe551 in reply to Beekepper]

Hi Beekeeper, I understand your anxiety. I can only speak for myself, I get on quite well with Enzymes (Creon) and Food I can tolerate - some days it works, some days less😀 In this Forum, we can get a lot of help and advice, especially th the feeling that we are Not alone with this. I learnt from my doctor that EPI alone dies Not mean doom and gloom, which I believe as well.