Pain S/P Pancreatitis Attack

[Guest guest]

,

You wrote, " But I still feel a small lodged pain where my pancreas is and

was wondering if this is normal after an attack. "

After a pancreatitis attack it is common to have residual like you shared.

The body has gone through a rough experience, it may take a few weeks to fully

recover. And, if you have chronic pancreatitis, it may be that you have

secondary neuropathic pain, which may or may not be well managed with

narcotics.

Neuropathic pain occurs when the nerves coming out of the spinal cord that

innervate into the pancreas sustain damage. Typically, this pain is felt in the

back and sides like a burning sensation, but can also feel hard. The

neuropathic pain can also radiate from the back and sides to other parts that

are

usually associated with pancreatitis attacks and cause what is called 'referred

pain.'

Nurture yourself. Put on soothing music. Relax. Practice deep, rhythmic

breathing.

Karyn E. , RN

Executive Director, PAI

Indianapolis, Indiana