Recurrent Pancreatitis in a 41-Year-Old Man Highlights the Critical Role of a Low-Fat Diet
A 41-year-old male presented with acute, persistent upper abdominal pain that began approximately six hours prior to arrival at our hospital. The pain was accompanied by nausea and one episode of vomiting. He had attempted self-treatment with over-the-counter medications including Xinwei Zhitong Capsules and Xiangsha Yangwei Pills, but his symptoms worsened, prompting him to seek emergency care.
Upon admission, an ultrasound of the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and spleen confirmed acute pancreatitis. The patient received a comprehensive treatment plan involving anti-inflammatory drugs, fluid replacement, lipid-lowering therapy, and suppression of pancreatic and gastric acid secretions. After three weeks of treatment, he showed significant improvement and was discharged with stable health indicators.
Patient Profile
- Age: 41
- Gender: Male
- Condition: Hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis
- Hospital: First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University
- Treatment Duration: 3 weeks
- Medications Used: Ceftriaxone Sodium for injection, Sodium Lactate Ringer's Injection, Glucose and Sodium Chloride Injection, Octreotide Acetate Injection, Omeprazole Sodium for injection, Fenofibrate Tablets, and Bezafibrate Dispersible Tablets
Initial Consultation
The patient had previously been hospitalized twice in 2018 (April and July) for abdominal pain and was diagnosed with hyperlipidemic pancreatitis. He had been taking lipid-lowering medication orally for the past five months. This time, he experienced sudden, severe epigastric pain radiating to the upper left abdomen and above the navel. He also reported nausea and one episode of vomiting, which temporarily relieved the pain. There were no signs of heartburn, acid reflux, or diarrhea. Despite initial self-medication, his condition deteriorated, leading to hospitalization.
Course of Treatment
Following admission, blood tests revealed significantly elevated triglyceride levels, confirming hyperlipidemia as the cause of pancreatitis. A conservative treatment approach was adopted with the consent of the patient and his family. Intravenous antibiotics, hydration therapy, and parenteral nutrition were administered. Octreotide and omeprazole were used to reduce pancreatic and gastric secretions, while fenofibrate and bezafibrate helped lower lipid levels. By the third day of treatment, the patient reported symptom relief, and after three weeks, he was discharged in good condition.
Treatment Outcomes
Before treatment, the patient exhibited continuous abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. These symptoms gradually subsided during hospitalization. Physical examination post-treatment showed reduced tenderness in the upper abdomen, and bowel sounds returned to normal. Blood tests also indicated improved lipid profiles, supporting the effectiveness of the treatment protocol.
Lifestyle Adjustments are Key
While the patient made a successful recovery, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence. Patients with a history of hypertriglyceridemia-induced pancreatitis should adopt a low-fat diet, avoid spicy and greasy foods, maintain regular meal times, and avoid overeating. In addition, alcohol consumption and smoking must be avoided to minimize the risk of relapse.
Final Thoughts from the Physician
Pancreatitis can stem from various causes, including excessive alcohol intake, infections, or metabolic disorders like hyperlipidemia. In this case, the primary trigger was high triglycerides. Although the patient responded well to medical treatment, long-term success depends on sustainable lifestyle modifications. A commitment to a healthy diet and regular physical activity plays a vital role in preventing future episodes of pancreatitis.