What role do pancreatic enzymes play in the management of pancreatitis?

Pancreatic enzymes play a crucial role in the management of pancreatitis, particularly in chronic pancreatitis. Here’s how:

1. Digestive support: Pancreatic enzymes help break down food into smaller molecules, facilitating nutrient absorption and reducing digestive symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and abdominal pain.

2. Relieving pain: By reducing the workload on the pancreas, enzyme supplements can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with chronic pancreatitis.

3. Preventing malabsorption: Enzyme replacement therapy helps prevent malabsorption of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, which is common in chronic pancreatitis.

4. Managing steatorrhea: Enzymes help reduce fatty stools (steatorrhea), a common symptom of chronic pancreatitis.