*sigh*

So my mother is back in hospital again. She has chronic pancreatitis. This generally isn't a good thing.

I read some more about it this morning as I realized I don't know all that much about it. Here are some nice highlights (courtesy the NIH).

Definition: Chronic pancreatitis is ongoing inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach that produces chemicals needed to digest food, as well as the hormones insulin and glucagon.

Treatment: The goal of treatment is to reduce stimulation of the pancreas, prevent indigestion, reduce pain, and treat diabetes (if present). Treatment may involve:

* Eating a low-fat diet
* Getting enough fat-soluble vitamins and calcium in the diet
* Analgesics or surgical nerve block to relieve pain
* Insulin to control blood sugar levels
* Supplemental pancreatic enzymes to correct underproduction

Patients must not drink alcohol.

Surgery may be recommended if a blockage is found. In severe cases, part or all of the pancreas may be removed.

Prognosis: This is a serious disease that may lead to disability and death. The risk of death may be lowered the person continues to avoid alcohol.

Well ain't that just a kick in the nads.