Understanding My Pain: Is it Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction or Recurrent Pancreatitis?
A 35-year-old female, measuring 167 cm and weighing 60 kg, reports being a non-smoker with no current medications. She is currently five months postpartum after giving birth to her second child. Her medical history includes an appendectomy performed in 2009, a cesarean section in 2024, and the recent surgical removal of her gallbladder just nine days ago. My situation has left me bewildered! It all began around five weeks ago when I experienced my first episodes of acute pancreatitis. After evaluating my condition, the gastroenterologist attributed it to my gallbladder, leading to its subsequent removal. Post-surgery, I woke up in excruciating pain, which they attempted to manage with fentanyl, but my discomfort only intensified. At some point, I overheard the mention of the sphincter of Oddi, which piqued my curiosity. Finally, they succeeded in alleviating my pain in recovery using a combination of buscopan and ketamine, indicating that my pain levels had reached a point comparable to that of labor. However, last night I experienced another bout of pain similar to the acute pancreatitis and sphincter of Oddi dysfunction episodes I had before. The discomfort radiates through my abdomen and back, as if a heavy object is lodged inside me, and it mirrors the severe sensations I experienced during my pancreatitis attacks. I've been trying over-the-counter pain relief alongside 20 mg of buscopan, yet nothing seems to provide relief. Could this be a sign of Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, or am I facing additional acute pancreatitis episodes? If it is pancreatitis, what could be the underlying cause now that my gallbladder has been removed? I have abstained from alcohol and ceased taking pain relief medications altogether. I plan to return to the hospital for further evaluation, but as a mother of a baby and a toddler, frequent hospital visits complicate everything. I would appreciate any insights or perspectives from those who may understand my situation better.
Answers (1)
3/29/2025, 2:10:47 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’re experiencing significant discomfort and uncertainty following your gallbladder removal, and the pain you’re describing may be related to either Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD) or recurrent acute pancreatitis. It's important to address your symptoms and concerns, particularly given your recent surgery and the demands of motherhood.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may align with Sphincter of Oddi dysfunction or recurrent pancreatitis.
- Both conditions can cause similar abdominal pain, particularly following gallbladder surgery.
- It is crucial to monitor your symptoms and seek further medical evaluation for appropriate management.
Explanation:
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Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction (SOD): This condition occurs when the sphincter, located at the junction of the bile duct and the pancreatic duct, fails to function properly. It can result in pain similar to that experienced during pancreatitis, especially after gallbladder removal.
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Recurrent Pancreatitis: Recent gallbladder removal can sometimes lead to post-operative pancreatitis. Other factors, such as lifestyle or associated medical conditions, could contribute to this.
Your recent experience of excruciating pain suggests the possibility of either condition, so understanding the cause is key to managing your symptoms effectively.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Keep track of your pain patterns, including the timing, duration, and nature of your pain as well as any triggers, dietary habits, or settings. This information can be invaluable for your healthcare provider during evaluations.
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Pain Management: While you’re reducing your reliance on medication, consider safe remedies such as:
- Warm compresses on your abdomen to help relax muscles and reduce discomfort.
- Gentle hydration (clear liquids) and a low-fat diet while you experience symptoms, this may help lessen pancreatitis strain.
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Monitor for Key Symptoms: If you experience severe symptoms such as high fever, jaundice (yellowing of the skin), severe abdominal pain that doesn’t improve, or any new symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
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Follow-Up Care: When you feel ready, plan to discuss your symptoms with a gastroenterologist or your healthcare provider to explore diagnostic tests (like imaging or endoscopic procedures) that can determine the cause of your pain.
Taking these steps can help you manage your discomfort and clarify your condition, which is important for returning to your daily routine as a mother. Please take care and remember that seeking help when in pain is essential, so do not hesitate to reach out to healthcare professionals for support.
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