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Dear Abby,
It is an excellent idea for all of us to keep a journal. Not with just how many
enzymes and food we intake, but also any meds we take and how we are feeling in
respond to any of the above. Additionally should mention any pain or nausea,
how we are sleeping, any that pertains to how we are managing with this disease.
Time consumign yes, but yes worth the effort to have this to show to the
doctors.
You also asked about enzymes. The best way to determine if he really needs the
enzymes is with the fecal fat test. I have always said a GI should do this test
BEFORE prescribing enzymes. It is considered the "gold standard" by some GIs
for diagnosing Chronic Pancreatitis.
What the test involves:
For 6 days intaking 100 grams of fat without any enzymes - this is the hardest
part of the test!! But it is a good time to get all them foods you normally
won't eat (i.e. donut, pizza, real eggs, etc). The last 3 days of this test,
you collect all stool. I recommend staying at home, otherwise you have to carry
your "bucket" with you. You have to keep it cold too. I suggest using a cooler
and ice packs for this. Normally result is less than 6 grams of fat found per
day.
In Nov 2000 I had 15 grams per day and little over a year ago it was 31 grams
per day - severe malabsorption.
Anyway, the results of this test is the most accurate way to determine if
enzymes are needed and how many. Hope this helps!
Lots of Gentle Hugs,
ReeAnn ~ Virginia
(434) 409-7162 or
(434) 979-0176
Founder ~ ThePancreatitisPlace
Home Page (www.thepancreatitisplace.org)