Postacute management of pancreatitis

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Normally I don't ask questions on this site (thank you google!), but in this instance I can't seem to find an answer.

I am trying to read ahead through the biliary disorders. The disease process makes perfect sense to me, same goes for the different causes of acute/chronic pancreatitis. The problem is that after the pancreatitis subsides, the book says to eliminate alcohol and caffeine entirely.

Eliminating alcohol makes sense to me, but why the caffeine? It doesn't discuss any effect caffeine would have on the pancreatic drainage. I looked on the NIH website and tried to look elsewhere, but they all just say to stop drinking caffeinated beverages but not why.

I am only curious why this is, and I hope the answer isn't a facepalm moment.

Thanks!

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

I always though it was because it caused over stimulation of the pancreas to there fore cause the pancreas to work harder and becoming gre-re-inflammed. But I could only find this.

Hydration and Chronic Pancreatitis

Many of our patients at The Pancreas Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, in Boston, MA have flares (increased pain) when they are dehydrated. While the exact reason is not known at this time, it is assumed that the lack of fluid assists in the accumulation of pancreatic sludge. This sludge can then lead to blockages which can irritate the pancreas.

Fluid needs can be met with any beverage that does not have caffeine or alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol should be limited as they are diuretics and promote fluid loss and can also stimulate the pancreas.

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Ok, THAT makes perfect sense. It was weird that they didn't have that in our textbook. Thanks for the reply :)

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Specializes in Critical Care, ED, Cath lab, CTPAC,Trauma.

You're welcome!

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