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Chronic Pancreatitis Treatment in Tomball, TX

Expert Care to Manage Pancreatitis Pain and Protect Digestion

What Is Chronic Pancreatitis?

Chronic pancreatitis is long-term inflammation of the pancreas that gradually damages the organ. Over time it can impair the ability of the pancreas to make digestive enzymes and insulin, leading to poor digestion and, sometimes, diabetes.

 

The most common cause is long-term heavy alcohol use. Other causes include smoking, genetic conditions, high triglycerides, autoimmune disease, and blocked pancreatic ducts. Identifying the cause helps guide treatment.

Freepik Doctor Is Pointing With A Pen The Liver Anatomic M

Symptoms and Warning Signs

The main symptom is ongoing or recurring upper-abdominal pain, often radiating to the back, along with nausea, weight loss, and greasy, foul-smelling stools from poor fat absorption. Warning signs that need prompt care include severe pain, persistent vomiting, or signs of dehydration.

Gastroenterologist In Texas

How Chronic Pancreatitis Is Diagnosed?

At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, evaluation begins with a detailed discussion of symptoms, diet, medical history, medications, and lifestyle factors. Diagnostic evaluation may include:

Comprehensive Medical History

Understanding symptom patterns often provides valuable clues.

Blood Testing

Laboratory studies may help identify:

  • Celiac disease
  • Inflammation
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Other medical conditions

H. pylori Testing

Testing may be recommended when stomach-related symptoms are present.

SIBO Breath Testing

Used to evaluate bacterial overgrowth within the small intestine.

Colonoscopy

May be recommended depending on age, symptoms, family history, and risk factors.

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Can help evaluate reflux, gastritis, ulcers, and upper digestive tract disorders.

Dr. Saranya Addepally

Dr. Saranya Addepally is a board-certified gastroenterologist with six years of clinical experience, treating a broad range of digestive and liver conditions. She is especially passionate about women’s GI health—areas where patients often feel overlooked or hesitant to seek care.

Her medical journey began in India, where she completed her training before moving to the United States to pursue advanced education in medicine and Gastroenterology at the University of Arkansas.

After several years in practice, she relocated to Houston to continue serving patients in the community. Following two years with a local group, she established her own practice, grounded in the principles and core values she believes are essential to delivering thoughtful, patient-centered care. 

Dr. Saranya Addepally, board-certified gastroenterologist in Houston, TX

Our Services

Our Signature Care Experience:

Care Beyond Visits

Helping Patients Throughout Houston, Tomball, Cypress, Willowbrook, and The Woodlands Manage Pancreatitis and Protect Digestion With Compassionate, Comprehensive Gastroenterology Care.
Pancreas and Digestive Health

Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, gastroenterologist in Houston, TX

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is chronic pancreatitis?

It is long-term inflammation that gradually damages the pancreas, affecting its ability to make digestive enzymes and insulin.

What causes chronic pancreatitis?

The most common cause is long-term heavy alcohol use. Smoking, genetics, high triglycerides, and blocked ducts can also cause it.

Is chronic pancreatitis reversible?

The damage is usually permanent, but treatment can control pain, improve digestion, and slow further damage, especially if the cause is removed.

Why am I losing weight?

A damaged pancreas may not make enough enzymes to digest food, leading to poor nutrient absorption and weight loss. Enzyme replacement helps.

How is chronic pancreatitis treated?

Treatment includes pain management, pancreatic enzyme replacement, diabetes care, and sometimes procedures to relieve blockages.

Can it lead to diabetes?

Yes. Over time, damage to the pancreas can reduce insulin production and cause diabetes, which is monitored and treated as part of care.

Take Control of Your Digestive and Liver Health with Expert Gastroenterology Care, Advanced Diagnostics, Personalized Treatment Plans, and Ongoing Support Designed Around You.

Treatment Options for Chronic Pancreatitis

Treatment focuses on relieving pain, improving digestion, and protecting pancreas function. After evaluating you, often with EUS or MRCP, your gastroenterologist builds a plan that may include:

At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic, we provide:

When to See a Doctor and How to Protect Your Pancreas

There is no single “quick fix” for chronic pancreatitis, but symptoms and digestion can be well managed. See a gastroenterologist for recurring upper-belly pain, weight loss, or greasy stools. At Shaya Digestive & Liver Clinic we focus on comfort, digestion, and prevention. To protect your pancreas:

Comprehensive Digestive and Liver Care Focused on Accurate Diagnosis, Effective Treatment, and Ongoing Support.

Offering Fast Track GI appointments

Specialized Gastroenterology Appointments Within 3–5 Business Days