IBS Pancreas – When the pancreas has problems, symptoms often presented are similar to IBS.
What’s Pancreas’ Primary Purpose?
The pancreas’ main purpose is to produce and release enzymes to digest carbohydrates, proteins and fats. The failure to release these enzymes such as lipase which helps to digest fats, can result in weight loss due to malabsorption of critical vitamins.
Similarly, when the body cannot digest carbohydrates, this can lead to the feeling of being bloated, gassiness, stomachaches and diarrhea.
IBS vs Pancreatic Deficiency
The symptoms of pancreatic deficiency is eerily similar to those of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. So one would often link the IBS condition with having pancreatic problems.
This is not true however, since it often takes about 95% of the pancreas to be damaged before symptoms arise. The causes of this damage can be from excessive use of alcohol and other reasons.
Defining the Differences
The primary symptoms of pancreatic deficiency is often related to the difficulty in digesting fats. The symptoms of not being able to digest and absorb fats are very different from those with IBS.
Therefore, it is important to know that pancreatic deficiency is not a cause of IBS nor should it be linked to the symptoms of IBS. It is important for you to seek the assistance of a qualified medical practitioner to diagnose your condition/ailment/symptoms.
It is all too easy for someone to look at the symptoms of IBS and try to match those with pancreatic deficiency or vice versa. From there, many internet readers then assume and immediately try to start on a health program. This is highly discouraged, as doctors are available to help diagnose your condition with great accuracy. If you do not trust the first diagnosis, then seek the opinion of another doctor before making any final conclusions around your health.
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