SHARING, CARING, & SUPPORT FOR PANCREATITIS AND SOD SUFFERERS!
WELCOME To The Pancreatitis/Sphincter of Oddi Dysfunction Support Group! Founded by Cheri Umbel on 4/9/2007. My Friend Maddi, will be moderating. In opening this Support Group, We really hope to grow & share in our knowledge of these diseases of the Pancreas, & make alot of new friends along the way!

PANCREATITIS Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas.The pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach & close to the duodenum. The duodenum is the upper part of the small intestine.The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine through a tube called the pancreatic duct.These enzymes help digest fats, proteins, & carbohydrates in food. The pancreas also releases the hormones insulin & glucagon into the bloodstream. These hormones help the body use the glucose it takes from food for energy. Normally, digestive enzymes do not become active until they reach the small intestine, where they begin digesting food. But if these enzymes become active inside the pancreas,they start "digesting" the pancreas itself.

SPHINCTER OF ODDI DYSFUNCTION(SOD) The sphincter of oddi is situated in the upper intestine at the site where the pancreatic & bile ducts enter.Normally,the sphincter functions as a one-way valve to allow bile & pancreatic secretions to enter the bowel,while preventing the contents of the bowel from backing up into these ducts.When the sphincter malfunctions,it becomes overly tight & does not allow adequate drainage of the pancreatic & bile ducts.

PLEASE NOTE: Any information or opinion given here should not be mistaken for professional Medical advice. Never change your heathcare plan without checking with your Dr