Having Hereditary Pancreatitis for 53 years has provided me with real experiences that many doctors can’t speak to. I personally have attributed many attacks to stress and some were within minutes of becoming stressed. The medical community does not directly associate stress with causing HP attacks. Their explanation (scientifically speaking) is some of the affects stress has on the body can, one of which is dehydration. When one is stressed, most often their focus is not on proper hydration but on the situation which caused the stress. This is not only true with proper hydration, but other things such as poor eating habits, lack of sleep, high blood pressure, and even self-destructive tendencies. In an article written by Kathianne Sellers R.D., she states; “Proper hydration is important in the health of all people, but especially for people with chronic pancreatitis. While many people with chronic pancreatitis are aware of the need for fat restriction, few are aware of the need for adequate hydration. 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.”
I get stressed when the doctors tell me I am a drug addict. I get stressed when I am asked how much alcohol I consume. I get stressed when doctors tell me my enzyme levels are normal and I should not be in pain. I get stressed when I see my daughter and grandson suffer from HP. I get stressed when I know more than the physician treating me in the emergency room. Am I crazy or arrogant, no but I am not stupid either. Why is it that a doctor can scientifically dispel what we know is true? We are going to have stress and stress will cause attacks, so what can be done to reduce the stress?
For me, I listen to my body and when I have reached the edge, I stop everything and do something I enjoy or that relaxes me. Each of us must find that “Something” we can do or “Place” we can go to separate us from the situation that is causing us stress. For me, a camping trip, fishing, listening to music and yes a movie can do the trick. For others, just talking to a friend, talking to their minister and yes even a professional counselor can help. Stress is something that affects everyone and is unavoidable, how we deal with will keep us from getting sick.
Whether your stressed or not, don’t forget to drink lots of water!