Confusion Surrounding My Pancreatitis Diagnosis
A 33-year-old woman, standing at 5’7” and weighing 132 pounds, has recently experienced ongoing health issues. I found myself hospitalized due to suspicions of a gallbladder infection. During my stay, doctors conducted several tests which revealed an alarmingly high lipase level, exceeding 800. To gather more information, I underwent two external ultrasounds, one internal ultrasound, and an MRI. However, all imaging returned normal results showing no signs of inflammation. I was treated with intravenous fluids which managed to lower my lipase level to over 150, yet I am still experiencing discomfort in the area where the pancreas is located. Upon discharge, I was given the diagnosis of pancreatitis, but the underlying cause remains elusive. I lead a lifestyle free from alcohol and tobacco, which raises questions about the source of my symptoms. What could be contributing to this situation?
Answers (1)
8/8/2025, 4:50:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a complex situation regarding your pancreatitis diagnosis, especially given your young age and healthy lifestyle choices. The key points to focus on here are: your elevated lipase levels, the normal imaging results, and your continuing discomfort.
Explanation: Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, which can be triggered by various factors, and it’s concerning when imaging doesn’t reveal the usual causes, like gallstones or alcohol use. High lipase levels indicate pancreatic inflammation, but the absence of other findings can lead to further investigation into other potential causes such as autoimmune disorders, certain medications, or metabolic conditions. Given your age and lifestyle, it's understandable to be frustrated by the lack of a clear cause, which can also happen in cases of idiopathic (unknown) pancreatitis.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including pain intensity, location, and any food triggers that seem to worsen your discomfort. This can help identify patterns.
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Dietary Modifications: Start with a low-fat diet to ease the strain on your pancreas. Focus on small, frequent meals that are bland and easy to digest. Avoid spicy foods, caffeine, and very sugary items.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day to support digestive function.
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Follow-Up Testing: Since the cause of your pancreatitis remains uncertain, discuss with your healthcare provider about further testing to explore other conditions that might contribute, such as autoimmune tests or evaluations of your thyroid function.
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Stress Management: Consider stress-reduction techniques such as yoga or meditation, as stress can also affect digestive health.
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Seek Information: Educate yourself about pancreatitis and explore support groups or forums where others share similar experiences. This might help you feel less isolated and provide additional coping strategies.
If any new symptoms arise or if your discomfort intensifies, it’s important to revisit your healthcare provider for further assessment. You're not alone in this, and many people navigate similar challenges with support and careful management.
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