Blood Sugar Levels In Patients With Severe Pancreatitis: Elevated Or Decreased?

Severe pancreatitis can lead to elevated blood glucose levels due to extensive damage to pancreatic cells. This condition often involves localized necrosis or even abscess formation, which impairs insulin secretion and disrupts glucose metabolism. As a result, patients may exhibit signs of hyperglycemia.

To diagnose severe pancreatitis, imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scans, and contrast-enhanced CT are commonly used. These methods help assess the extent of pancreatic damage and identify complications like fluid accumulation around the pancreas, significant tissue necrosis, or abscesses.

Pancreatic damage in severe cases may lead to multiple organ failure, including respiratory, circulatory, renal, and intestinal dysfunction. Common symptoms include intense abdominal pain, bloating, cessation of bowel movements and gas release, and the presence of dark red gastric fluid through a nasogastric tube. Due to these complications, severe pancreatitis carries a relatively high mortality rate.

Patients with severe pancreatitis must avoid oral intake of food and fluids to prevent further stress on the pancreas. Intravenous nutrition may be required to sustain vital bodily functions. With appropriate medical care and extended treatment, many patients can achieve full recovery.

Early diagnosis and intervention play a crucial role in improving outcomes for individuals suffering from this serious condition. Timely medical support helps manage metabolic disturbances and prevents life-threatening complications.