Chronic Pancreatitis: Pain Management

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Overview

Pain is a frustrating, sometimes debilitating aspect of ongoing (chronic) pancreatitis. Many people have pain for many years.

Pain may decrease as the damaged pancreas loses its ability to produce enzymes. But it may take years for the pancreas to stop producing enzymes. In many people, this process never occurs.

If you are having debilitating pain from chronic pancreatitis, you may be referred to a pain clinic.

Treatment for pain includes avoiding alcohol, eating a low-fat diet, using pain medicine, and in some cases taking enzyme pills to help rest your pancreas.

Analgesics.

You may be able to help your pain with over-the-counter pain medicines like acetaminophen, aspirin, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label. If over-the-counter pain medicines don't control your pain, your doctor may prescribe another type of pain medicine.

Tricyclic antidepressants.

These medicines (such as amitriptyline or imipramine) may help people sleep and cope with pain and depression.

Pancreatic enzyme supplements.

People can take oral enzyme supplements, which may reduce pain in some people, particularly those who have mild or moderate disease.

Stents.

A procedure called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can be used to place small supports (stents) in a narrow pancreatic duct.

Celiac plexus nerve block.

An injection of alcohol or corticosteroids into this bundle of abdominal nerves may provide temporary relief.

Surgery.

Pain may be reduced by removing stones from the pancreas and draining pancreatic ducts. For some cases of chronic pain, total pancreatectomy (removal of the pancreas) may be considered.

Credits

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.