All You Need to Know About the Pancreas and Its Functions
Posted by Dr. Vikas Singla on December 27th, 2019
The pancreas is a major glandular organ in the upper abdomen of the human body. This is a core element of the digestive system and tends to play a major role in controlling the blood sugar levels of the human body. People should consult the best pancreas specialist in Gangaram hospital or some other medical center when faced with any issues regarding this organ. The pancreas is known to play the dual role of being an exocrine gland, as well as an endocrine gland.
The major functions of this organ include:
• Exocrine Function: The pancreas is known for featuring exocrine glands that produce crucial enzymes that are needed to facilitate the process of digestion. Such enzymes tend to include trypsin and chymotrypsin that help in digesting proteins, while also releasing amylase for facilitating the digestion of carbohydrates and lipase for the breakdown of fats. Such pancreatic juices tend to be released in the system of ducts as the food enters the stomach. The pancreatic duct tends to then join the common bile duct in order to form the ampulla of Vater. This ampulla in the small intestine is referred to as duodenum. The pancreatic bile and juices tend to be released into the duodenum and subsequently assist the body in the digestion process of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
• Endocrine Function: The islet cells are responsible for releasing important hormones directly into the bloodstream. The insulin and glucagon are two of the major types of pancreatic hormones. Glucagon is a hormone that is responsible for raising the blood sugar level of people, while insulin aids in lowering it. Adequate maintenance of the blood sugar level of the body is crucial to the smooth and efficient functioning of the major organs, including kidneys, liver and the brain.
Issues with the pancreas often result in symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, and acute constipation. As this is one of the most important glands of the human body, people should try to consult the best pancreas specialist in Gangaram hospital or some other medical institution when faced with any symptoms related to it.
The prime causes of pancreatic diseases
There are multiple factors and causes that give rise to pancreatic ailments. These factors can be related to genetics and lifestyle habits. People who have hereditary ailments like diabetes or unhealthy lifestyle habits have superior chances of developing health conditions related to the pancreas. These habits include chain-smoking, excessive consumption of alcohol, and chewing of tobacco.
• Pancreatic tumors
• Pancreatic pseudocyst
• Acute pancreatitis
• Gall bladder stone
• Gall bladder cancer
• Common bile duct stone
• Cholangiocarcinoma
• Chronic pancreatitis
People should consult a good pancreatic specialist at once especially if they face the problems of persistent pain in the upper abdomen or abdomen distension, so as to go through a few routine tests with the help of which any possibilities of a pancreatic disorder can be ruled out. Following a healthy lifestyle and eating well-balanced meals can significantly assist in ensuring the good health of pancreas, as well as the body as a whole.
