To Jen

[Guest guest]

Dear Jen,

Welcome to this group. I'm sure you'll find the help and support you

need from people who understand what this pain is. I'm sorry you are

going through this tough time.

Mostly it's a case of taking steps to make oneself as comfortable as

possible by taking the sort of steps that Robin outlined. I find the

enzymes very helpful in controlling the symptoms of malabsorption

like diarrhoea etc. My pancreatitis is chronic and advanced and my

pancreas does not produce its own digestive enzymes any more. Of

course, you may not need these yet or ever. If the pancreatitis is

becoming chronic, or becomes chronic in the future, you will

probably need enzymes. The docs should guide you, of course. Apart

from that, it's a case of diet (low fat and no alcohol) and the

other things Robin also mentioned.

You seem to have good docs who are taking care of you well. That's

important. This is a relatively rare condition so it is crucial to

have a really experienced gastroenterologist or, even better, a

pancreatologist who spends all his or her time treating pancreatic

conditions. My gastro is great too.

I do know how frustrating and saddening this disease is, as well as

being so painful. At least you don't need to feel alone now. I'm

sure your docs will come up with something to help you soon.

With good wishes,

Fliss