Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH) are a few of the numerous systems of traditional medicine in India. They have existed for thousands of years but their full potential is yet to be realised. Our government, in an attempt to integrate these traditional systems of medicine into the public health system, hopes to launch a national policy for AYUSH by October this year.

At an award function for Ayurvedic practitioners in Mumbai, the Minister of State for AYUSH, Shripad Naik said, “The Centre is drafting a national policy for AYUSH. The final draft policy is likely to be circulated among ministries and states by June before it makes its way to the Cabinet. The AYUSH ministry is targeting to launch the final policy latest by October.”

The policy proposes to include Ayurveda, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy into the universal health insurance scheme. “It will also focus on the need for creation of infrastructure, research facilities and regulation to streamline AYUSH.” Naik said.

The minister further added that there were plans to globally promote India as a preferred destination for AYUSH.

“We will also set specific targets to be achieved within deadlines, bring regulation for education and research, as well as set standards for AYUSH medicines and treatment.” Naik said. This is to discover the full potential of traditional systems of medicine and how to harness it to improve primary and preventive health care.

So, India is all set to make traditional medicine international in collaboration with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United States, through research and development. “The UN agency has evinced keen interest in AYUSH medicines and is slated to sign an agreement to this effect in Geneva soon.“ Naik added.

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that are formed in the gallbladder, an organ located near the liver. While many people don’t experience any symptoms from these stones, they can cause an array of problems if left untreated. Gallbladder stones may be tiny or may grow to the size of a golf ball as a result, the gallbladder stones can block the bile duct, causing pain in the upper right side of the abdomen and other symptoms like pain radiating to the shoulder or the back, nausea or vomiting. These conditions require medical attention and treatment that is accessible through health insurance. In this article, we aim to explore the different causes of gallstones.

How are Gallstones Caused?

There may be a few possible reasons for the causes of gallstones in adults:

Too much cholesterol in the bile

Our body needs bile for digestion which usually dissolves cholesterol. But in some cases, when bile cannot digest enough cholesterol, the extra cholesterol might form stones in the gallbladder.

Too much bilirubin in the bile

In conditions like liver damage and certain blood disorders, our body produces more bilirubin, which is a substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. When bilirubin is formed, it passes through the liver and is finally excreted out of the body. When the concentration of bilirubin increases in the liver, pigment gallstones are formed in the gallbladder because it can’t break down the excess bilirubin, resulting in the formation of hard stones that are often dark brown or black. 

Concentrated bile due to a full gallbladder

The gallbladder needs to empty its bile content to function properly. But in some cases of liver diseases, the gallbladder fails to empty its bile concentration as a result, the bile concentration becomes too high, resulting in the formation of gallstones.

Apart from these, the risk factors for gallstones can be related to diet, which can be controlled, while other factors are uncontrollable risk factors that include age, race, sex, as well as family history.

Lifestyle risk factors

●    Obesity
●    A diet rich in fat or cholesterol and low in fibre
●    Undergoing rapid weight loss
●    Living with type 2 diabetes

Genetic risk factors

●    Being born female
●    Being a Native American increases the risk
●    Having a family history of gallstones
●    Being 60 years or older

Medical risk factors

●    Living with cirrhosis
●    Being pregnant
●    Taking medicines to lower cholesterol
●    Taking medicines to control high estrogen content 
 

Conclusion

Gallstones are a common condition that can cause significant discomfort and certain complications if left untreated. So, one should look for the causes of gallstones and their symptoms and explore gallstone treatment options to manage gallstones effectively. Some changes in diet and leading a healthy lifestyle can help lower the risk of gallstone formation and promote better digestive health. If a person experiences acute cholecystitis or develops symptoms related to gallstones, he should seek immediate treatment.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

Herpes is an incredibly common viral infection, and, as such, it’s important to understand the causes of herpes. Unfortunately, many people do not have a full understanding of what these viruses are or how they are transmitted- even though a majority of individuals will encounter them at some point in their lives. In this article, we will explain the different causes of herpes so you can be better equipped to identify and protect yourself from contracting this infection.

How is Herpes Caused?

The following are some of the most common causes of herpes:

• Herpes spreads via physical contact or contact with fluid from a sore. Once contracted, these viruses persist for life. The virus resides primarily in nerve cells in a dormant state. Periodically, the virus may reactivate, leading to oral or genital herpes outbreaks.
• Both oral and genital herpes stem from HSV infection. HSV infection is generally transmitted through contact with a herpes sore or active virus in asymptomatic individuals. The condition is generally known as asymptomatic shedding.
• Ever wondered what causes herpes on skin? HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes (cold sores) and is transmitted through non-sexual contact like kissing or touching. However, it can also be passed to the genitals through oral sex. In fact, HSV-1 has become a common cause of genital herpes, especially in young women.
• HSV-2 predominantly causes genital herpes, primarily transmitted through intimate sexual contact.

Several risk factors significantly raise the likelihood of herpes infection, including:

• Unprotected sex
• Multiple partners
• Anonymous partners
• Prior STIs

It is important to note that genital herpes risk is higher in females than biological males.

Additionally, you should look into what is your health insurance coverage regarding herpes.

Conclusion

Herpes spreads through physical contact or fluid from sores, with asymptomatic shedding being a concern. Understanding these causes is crucial for timely intervention. Risk factors with respect to causes of herpes include unprotected sex and multiple partners; females face a higher genital herpes risk than males.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

The sudden nature of this emergency is sure to impact your savings and is also likely to cause panic. A health insurance policy reduces the stress of arranging of finances single handedly and also offers a variety of medical benefits.

Many insurance companies offer health insurance plans that are designed to offer coverage to the entire family. National health policy in India offer primary health care services that are designed to reduce financial stress and burden on the family of the ailing individual. Insurance companies that offer family health insurance policies offer compensation for different medical expenses. Comparing different policy quotes of health insurance policies for family will make you more aware about the different features and allow you to select the perfect plan for your family.

The ICICI Lombard complete health insurance policy offered by ICICI Lombard may offers a comprehensive insurance cover and the floater benefit extends policy cover to the entire family. The sum insured offered by such a health insurance can be shared by all the family members till the policy term expires. Thus, with the payment of a single premium you can insure all the family members with a medical cover.

Managing such a health insurance policy is easy as you do not have to remember individual policy renewal dates. This health insurance policy may also offers life-long renew ability that offers continuous benefits to your loved ones with premium medical care.

The insurance policy offers compensation for like room charges, doctor’s or surgeon’s fees, expenses borne by the insured individual for medicines, etc. All these features are sure to come handy if the patient is placed under medical observation during minor injuries due to an accident or mishap. In cases where the total duration of hospitalization is more than 24 hours, this policy may also offers coverage for inpatient treatment and prevents sudden loss of finances.

It also extends coverage for all expenses 30 days before and 60 days after hospitalisation and is sure to greatly reduce the financial burden in today’s inflated times where medical aid is costly. Another important aspect of the health insurance policy is the cashless claim feature. With this feature, the insurance company offers the ailing member of you family premium health care from its wide network of hospitals. All the hospitalisation bills are settled by the insurance provider and you are relived of monetary stress that could arise when arranging for finances singlehandedly.

Recent studies indicate that the rise in eye infections in cities is a direct result of air pollution. 30,000 people were detected with cornea infection caused by the increased particulates in the air last year in Delhi. Doctors state that the problem is serious because if allergies and conjunctivitis are left untreated, they can damage the cornea and impair vision.

According to doctors, the tear film of the eyes is made more acidic by pollutants like nitric oxide, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide existing in high levels in the air.

Samir Sud, an eye expert said, "One should not rub eyes directly even if fine particulates enter, rather wash eyes with water. After that they should apply a cool compress to help reduce inflammation."

Direct contact with an allergen leads to the allergic reaction in the eye. Once it happens, chances are that it would occur repeatedly. It is suggested to visit an eye expert if the problem is causing considerable inconvenience. The doctor might recommend antihistamines or anti-inflammatory eye drops. In certain cases the doctor might even suggest steroid eye drops for relief.

Measles is an airborne viral infection that affects many people, young and old alike. Highly contagious, measles can spread quickly if preventative measures against the virus are not taken. While it’s easy to blame the measles virus for this severe illness – which can even result in death if left untreated – there are various factors which contribute directly or indirectly toward its spread. As such, it’s important to know more about what causes measles so you can take action before the disease has a chance to spread. This allows you to claim your health insurance at the right time. In this blog post we'll cover some of the most common causes of measles.

How is Measles Caused?

Measles is the result of infection by a contagious virus known as morbillivirus.

Morbillivirus spreads through various means. This includes the release of contaminated droplets into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. The following are some of the most popularly known causes of measles:

• Morbillivirus can be transmitted through intimate contact such as kissing
• Sharing drinks or food
• Shaking hands or holding hands, or hugging with an infected individual.
• Pregnant individuals can pass on the virus to their babies during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding

Notably, the morbillivirus can persist in the air even after the infected person has left the vicinity. After exposure to the morbillivirus, it can take between six to 21 days for symptoms of measles to manifest. This period is known as the incubation period. Importantly, individuals become contagious approximately four days before the onset of the characteristic rash and continue to be so for about four days after the rash appears.

It's essential to note that there is no known cure for measles. The virus typically follows its natural course, which usually lasts for about 10 to 14 days.

However, some measures can be taken to alleviate symptoms and discomfort during this time. Some timely pain-relieving intervention include taking over-the-counter pain relievers, ensuring adequate rest, staying well-hydrated, gargling with salt water, and avoiding bright lights if one's eyes become sensitive.

Conclusion

Measles poses a significant threat, especially to young children. Measles spread through respiratory droplets, close contact, and from pregnant or new mother to child. Despite a readily available vaccine, thousands still succumb to this preventable disease annually. Understanding the causes of measles is crucial for early intervention. Timely vaccination remains the most effective defense against measles.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

However market statistics show that the decision to opt for an insurance cover does not immediately culminate into a purchase. This is generally due to the availability of multiple types and options of insurance schemes that leave the buyer undecided on the best course of action.

Are you too in a similar stage of dilemma? If so, spend the next few minutes with us, as we acquaint you with the various aspects of a Complete Healthcare Insurance Plan.

For starters, health insurance plans offer the following benefits:

Peace of Mind: Needless to say an insurance plan that provides financial relief in medical exigencies gives immense peace of mind

Reduced Financial Liabilities: Financial liabilities towards healthcare can be addressed by opting for a reliable Individual Healthcare insurance plan.

Quality Healthcare Services: Insurance companies have a tie up with a vast network of hospitals. By opting for a health insurance plan you can get immediate medical attention at such hospitals.

Healthcare Expenses: A health plan safeguards your finances and protects you against losses due to rising medical costs.

How is it different from a Life Insurance Plan?

A life insurance plan offers a lump sum amount (sum assured) to your dependants (nominees) once you pass away. On the other hand, health insurance plans cover the cost of medical expenses.

What are the types of Health Plans?

There are primarily two types of Health Plans: Benefit and Indemnity Plans. While Benefit Plans provide a lump sum amount on being diagnosed with select critical illnesses, Indemnity Policies offer to reimburse your medical expenditure either through a cashless channel or 'pay-and-claim' method.

Complete Health Insurance - iHealth Plan

is a comprehensive plan designed to cover your healthcare expenses during emergencies thereby minimizing your financial burden.

What is Health Insurance?
An agreement between you and the Insurance Company wherein the company agrees to bear your healthcare and hospitalization expenses in lieu of a yearly charge known as premium.

Things to Consider Before Deciding the Coverage Amount:

• Number and Age of Policyholders
• Pre-existing Ailments

Unsure About The Coverage Amount?
Well, opt for the health plan along with a top up plan, in that case. Available at nominal rates, these plans (like Health Care Plus) offer to cover expenses in case your existing health care policy coverage proves to be inadequate

Quick Tip:
Well, opt for the health plan along with a top up plan, in that case. Available at nominal rates, these plans (like Health Care Plus) offer to cover expenses in case your existing health care policy coverage proves to be inadequate.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Hosur, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Gobichettipalayam, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Erode, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Dindigul, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance policies :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Devakottai, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance plans :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

ICICI Lombard Health Insurance Cashless Network Hospital List in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu

Explore ICICI Lombard’s health insurance policies :

• Family Health Insurance
• Personal Accident Insurance 
• Top Up Health Insurance
• Arogya Sanjeevani Policy
• Corona Kavach Policy
• Senior Citizen Health Insurance
• Parents Health Insurance
• Children Health Insurance

which offers people much needed financial backup during any medical emergencies.

In case of planned or emergency hospitalization, you may want to go to a hospital that’s in your vicinity. If the doctor who’s been treating you works at a particular hospital, chances are you would prefer that one over others. Now, it may be possible that your health insurance company's hospital network doesn't cover your preferred hospital. Then, the only option you would you have at hand is to make a reimbursement claim on your health insurance.
You might have too many doubts about a reimbursement claim that range from what is a reimbursement claim to what you can do to ensure a smooth and speedy settlement of your reimbursement claim. Hence, here we are to help you get acquainted with its complete process and further understand its intricacies.

What is a reimbursement claim?

In a reimbursement claim, you pay the hospitalization expenses from your pocket, and the health insurance company later pays that amount to you provided you submit all the necessary documents. You will have to apply for a reimbursement claim only if you choose to get your treatment done at a hospital which is not a part of your health insurance company’s hospital network or if you miss opting for a cashless claim.
While making a reimbursement claim, you need to be careful about the coverage of your treatment and related expenses under your health insurance policy. Your health insurance company can turn down your claim if your policy doesn't cover them.

How is a reimbursement claim different than a cashless claim?

A reimbursement claim can take longer to process than a cashless claim. For a reimbursement claim, you need to ensure you collect and submit all the documents and bills related to your hospitalization. On the other hand, in a cashless claim, the empaneled hospital will do the job of sending your documents and bills to the insurance company, and the claim will be settled with them directly.
In a reimbursement claim, you have to wait till you get your money reimbursed from the insurance company, whereas in a cashless claim, the insurance company will pay it straight to the hospital. You will only have to bear the expenses that are excluded from your policy or are over your sum insured.
Since your insurance company does not have a tie-up with the hospital, your reimbursement claim will be thoroughly investigated. This may further delay your claim settlement. Cashless claims instead tend to get settled faster and in a hassle-free manner.

When do I need to inform you about my reimbursement claim?

In case of planned hospitalization, you can inform us two days before admission, and in case of emergency hospitalization, you need to inform us within 24 hours of hospitalization.

Do you have a rash that looks like a ring? You may be suffering from ringworm, an infection caused by fungi. While it sounds scary, having ringworm doesn't mean you're unclean — anyone can get it! It's important to understand the causes of this common skin condition so you can take steps to prevent it and get rid of any current outbreaks as soon as possible. In this article, we'll discuss the causes of ringworm and provide several helpful tips for preventing the spread of this infection.

How is Ringworm Caused?

Ringworm is a prevalent issue, especially in tropical regions and during sweltering, humid summers. Ringworms can easily propagate in warm, damp settings. This includes locker rooms and indoor swimming pools. Ringworm is caused by various fungi. These infectious fungi tend to thrive in warm and humid environments. You can contract ringworm through various means:

1. Direct skin-to-skin contact with an individual who is infected.
2. Interaction with animals like dogs, cats, or farm animals carrying ringworms.
3. Contact with soil that has been contaminated by ringworm.
4. Handling objects, such as phones, combs, or towels, that have been contaminated with the fungi responsible for ringworm.

Your likelihood of developing a ringworm infection increases if you:

1. Reside in tropical regions.
2. Spend considerable time in hot and humid weather.
3. Experience heavy sweating.
4. Engage in activities like wrestling, football, or other contact sports.
5. Live in close quarters with others, such as military housing.
6. Share towels, clothing, razors, or other items without proper disinfection (razors) or washing (clothing and towels).
7. Are overweight or obese.
8. Have diabetes.
9. Wear clothing that rubs against and irritates your skin.
10. Frequent locker rooms or pools without thoroughly washing and drying your feet before you put on shoes and socks.

Leukemia is a type of cancer that is characterised by the malfunctioning and rapid multiplication of abnormal white blood cells in the bloodstream. While it can affect individuals from all walks of life, leukemia - specifically acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML)- has been known to primarily target children. With devastating effects like anemia, severe bleeding issues, bone pain, and piled up infection risk due to lowered immunity system amongst many others; it’s no surprise that understanding the causes of leukemia holds paramount importance when it comes to prevention as well as implanting new treatment strategies. Therefore join us as we decode the mysteries surrounding the causes of leukemia.

How is Leukemia Caused?

Leukemia is caused by mutations in the genetic material within blood cells, specifically leukocytes. The changes impair the cells' ability to regulate their growth and division. In some instances, the mutated cells manage to evade the immune system's control mechanisms, leading to uncontrolled proliferation and outnumbering of healthy blood cells in the bloodstream.

Several factors increase a person's risk of developing leukemia. This includes:

• Gender: Gender plays a role, with men being more predisposed to this condition than women.
• Age: Age is a significant factor, as the likelihood of developing most forms of leukemia increases with advancing age.
• Family history: While most leukemias do not have a strong hereditary component, having a first-degree relative or an identical twin with the condition can increase an individual's risk.
• Other medical conditions: Congenital syndromes, including Down syndrome, Fanconi anemia, Bloom syndrome, ataxia-telangiectasia, and Blackfan-Diamond syndrome, are associated with an elevated risk of developing the condition.
• Smoking: Although smoking itself may not directly cause leukemia, individuals who smoke cigarettes face an increased risk of developing the condition.
• Radiation: Exposure to radiation, particularly from high-energy sources like atomic bomb explosions, can raise the risk of leukemia.
• Certain chemicals: Long-term exposure to specific pesticides or industrial chemicals like benzene is also considered a risk factor for leukemia.
• Electromagnetic fields: Prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields, such as living near power lines, may increase an individual's likelihood of developing the condition.
• Certain therapies: Certain types of chemotherapy and radiation therapy used to treat other forms of cancer are recognised as factors that can increase the risk of developing leukemia.
  

If you or your family have been dealing with red, itchy, and watery eyes lately—conjunctivitis (also known as “pink eye”) may be to blame. Conjunctivitis is a very common eye condition that can affect individuals of all ages and cause a range of annoying symptoms. While this infection can make life uncomfortable for a short time, understanding its causes and treatments will help ensure quick recovery periods so you can get back to living your life normally! In this article, we'll cover the various causes of conjunctivitis and what you should do if you're experiencing any of its symptoms.

How is Conjunctivitis Caused?

The following are some of the popularly known causes of conjunctivitis.

• Viral Conjunctivitis

One prominent cause of conjunctivitis is viral infection. Adenoviruses in particular, are the primary reason. Viral conjunctivitis is highly contagious and typically spreads via contact with infected individuals or contaminated surfaces, and is mainly what causes redness in the eyes. Symptoms include watery discharge, redness, and itching. The condition often accompanies viral illnesses like the common cold or upper respiratory tract infections.

• Bacterial Conjunctivitis

Bacteria, like Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, can induce bacterial conjunctivitis. The condition frequently occurs in the morning with crusty eyelids and yellow or green discharge. Close physical contact with infected persons, sharing personal items, or touching contaminated surfaces are common modes of transmission.

• Allergic Conjunctivitis

Some individuals experience allergic conjunctivitis triggered by exposure to allergens or seasonal changes. Typical allergens include pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and mold spores. The allergens lead to inflammation of the eye's conjunctiva, resulting in redness, stinging, and tearing.

• Irritant Conjunctivitis

Direct contact of the eye with irritants such as smoke, chlorine from swimming pools, or harsh chemicals can cause irritant conjunctivitis. The condition is not contagious and usually resolves once the irritant is removed. Proper eye protection and avoidance of irritants can prevent this form of conjunctivitis.

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing conjunctivitis:

• Exposure to an infected person: You can catch Conjunctivitis by coming into contact with an infected person.
• Age: Children are particularly susceptible to infectious conjunctivitis due to close contact in educational settings.
• Contact Lens Wear: Improper handling, extended use, or inadequate cleaning of contact lenses can lead to bacterial conjunctivitis.
• Compromised Immune System: People with weakened immune systems are more vulnerable to bacterial or viral conjunctivitis.
• Allergies: Those with a history of allergies are more prone to allergic conjunctivitis.
• Environmental Exposure: Living in crowded or unsanitary environments may elevate the risk of conjunctivitis transmission.

The pancreas is a component of the gastrointestinal system and is responsible for producing enzymes to aid in digestion as well as hormones to regulate blood glucose levels. Pancreatitis is characterized by inflammation of the pancreas, which arises when the digestive enzymes within the organ become activated and irritate the lining of the pancreas. Acute pancreatitis can occur suddenly and last for a few days, while chronic pancreatitis manifests gradually over the course of several years. In this article, we explore the causes of pancreatitis.

How is Pancreatitis Caused?

Swelling and pain are consequent to inflammation of the pancreas. Acute pancreatitis often stems from gallstones and generally dissipates after a few days of treatment. Nonetheless, repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis can progress into chronic pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis is a severe condition that does not resolve on its own. In the absence of treatment, chronic pancreatitis can result in permanent damage to the pancreas. Excessive alcoholism is the most common cause of chronic pancreatitis. Some of the other causes of pancreatitis are:

• Gallstones: Gallstones formed in the gallbladder can come out and block the bile duct, resulting in blockage of pancreatic enzyme release into the small intestine. Retention and activation of digestive enzymes in the pancreas result in irritation of the pancreas, which results in inflammation.
• Excessive consumption of alcohol: Excessive consumption of alcohol can lead to the development of pancreatitis by increasing the viscosity of pancreatic secretion, which leads to inflammation and fibrosis.
• High levels of triglycerides in the blood: higher levels of triglyceride-rich lipoprotein in the circulation can occlude the pancreatic capillaries, which can damage pancreatic acinar cells, resulting in inflammation.
• Abnormally high calcium levels: Elevated calcium levels in the blood can deposit in the pancreatic duct, which results in the retention and activation of trypsinogen in the pancreas. Activation of enzymes in the pancreas results in inflammation.
• Family history of pancreatitis: Genetics plays an important role in the development of pancreatitis. A person with a family history of pancreatitis has a higher chance of developing pancreatitis.
• Other causes of pancreatitis include pancreatic cancer, cigarette smoking, diabetes, abdominal injury, infection, cystic fibrosis, obesity, abdominal surgery, and trauma.