Can you drink water with acute pancreatitis?

Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
Updated on September 28, 2024
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During the acute attack of acute pancreatitis, it is essential to immediately prohibit eating and drinking, as it may exacerbate the condition. Once the abdominal pain disappears and the body temperature normalizes, one can gradually resume eating and drinking, starting with small amounts of water and liquid food. However, it is also necessary to avoid consumption of meats and protein-rich foods. Additionally, if eating prompts a relapse of the condition, it indicates that the prohibition of eating and drinking should continue. If patients with pancreatitis resume eating and drinking too soon, it can lead to a worsening of the condition.

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Can acute pancreatitis patients have sexual intercourse?

Patients with acute pancreatitis cannot have sexual intercourse during the acute treatment period because it can lead to physical exhaustion and further weaken the patient's condition. Therefore, during the acute phase of acute pancreatitis, the focus should be on rest, and the diet should include foods rich in vitamins and carbohydrates, such as starchy foods, fresh vegetables, and fruits. It is important to avoid overeating, greasy foods, and alcohol consumption. If patients with acute pancreatitis recover fully, and their physical strength is completely restored, they may then consider resuming sexual activity.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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What is acute pancreatitis and is it serious?

Acute pancreatitis is relatively common in clinical practice, which generally refers to inflammatory changes in the pancreas caused by various reasons, such as exudation and necrosis of the pancreas. Depending on the condition, it is divided into mild and severe pancreatitis. Generally, mild pancreatitis has a good prognosis with a treatment period of about one to two weeks through conservative medical treatment, and it typically heals on its own. However, severe pancreatitis with accompanying organ failure, such as liver, kidney, or respiratory failure, or the presence of local complications like abscesses, fever, pseudocysts, obstruction, etc., generally has a longer treatment period, poorer prognosis, and higher treatment costs. Therefore, the treatment outcomes vary depending on the severity and urgency of the acute pancreatitis. It is recommended that patients considering acute pancreatitis should continue diagnosis and treatment at a local hospital. Particular attention must be given to severe pancreatitis.

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Written by Zhu Dan Hua
Gastroenterology
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Acute pancreatitis clinical manifestations and signs

The clinical manifestations of acute pancreatitis generally present as upper abdominal pain, with some patients also experiencing fever, nausea, vomiting, and pain in the lumbar and back areas. In terms of physical signs, the main ones are abdominal distension and tenderness in the upper abdomen, with abdominal pain being the most commonly seen symptom in clinical settings. This pain is typically in the upper abdomen, persistent, and difficult to alleviate, although bending forward may provide some relief for the patient; some patients may also experience symptoms of vomiting. Diagnosis of the condition primarily relies on blood and urine amylase levels and imaging studies. Typically, an ultrasound and CT scan of the abdomen are completed, which can reveal typical changes associated with acute pancreatitis, such as effusion, etc. Treatment, for now, involves enzyme inhibition, fasting, acid suppression, fluid replacement, and other symptomatic treatments. Generally, the acute phase of pancreatitis can be controlled within five to seven days, but if severe pancreatitis is considered, the treatment period may be longer. (The use of medication should be under the guidance of a physician.)

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Written by Wu Hai Wu
Gastroenterology
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Is the recurrence rate of acute pancreatitis high?

After recovering from acute pancreatitis, if patients do not pay careful attention to their diet, there is a significant risk of relapse. For example, they should not drink alcohol excessively, overeat, or consume greasy foods. Also, if the acute pancreatitis is caused by conditions such as gallstones, it is important to have the gallbladder removed promptly. Without gallbladder removal, the recurrence rate of the disease noticeably increases. Patients with acute pancreatitis should initially eat foods that are easy to digest and low in protein and fat, such as carbohydrates that are also easy to swallow. Once the patient's condition significantly improves, they can gradually transition to a diet higher in protein and vitamins, among other nutrients.

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Written by Si Li Li
Gastroenterology
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Dietary care for acute pancreatitis

Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include severe upper abdominal pain. During the treatment, it is essential to fast and decompress the stomach and intestines initially during the abdominal pain period. Once the pain subsides, the patient can begin a liquid diet, followed by a gradual transition to a semi-liquid diet under the guidance of a doctor. Since the causes of acute pancreatitis include binge eating or excessive alcohol consumption, patients with acute pancreatitis should abstain from alcohol and maintain a balanced diet to prevent binge eating. A light diet is preferable, avoiding fatty, greasy, fried, and barbecued foods. Additionally, it is important to maintain regular rest patterns and avoid excessive fatigue or staying up late.