u/IDK0521

Had recent bloodwork. Everything is clean as a whistle...minus my lipase...barely. Lab range was 14-72. My lipase read 75. My doctor placed a follow-up note in MyChart "possibility of minor pancreatitis, follow up in 1-2 weeks for imaging if symptoms persist". Of course this made me alarmed right away and sent me down the google rabbit hole. Seems like my reading is barely off and I must note I have none of the symptoms mentioned online: abdominal pain (especially higher or radiating to my back), vomiting, nausea, fever, diarrhea, etc.

I do see my GI on Tuesday and will mention my concerns. I am a GERD/LPR sufferer and have been recovering from a pretty bad bout of silent reflux (constipation, post nasal drip, globus sensation, inflammation causing air hunger, burping, etc.). Only thing that comes to mind is my lifestyle (social drinking so probably heavier moderate side) and the fact I take antiacids and birth control. Doctor did not have me fast for the blood draw. Not sure if that does anything.

Just trying to ease my mind.

Genuinely curious why I see so much PPI hate on this thread? I have been assured by both my PCP and GI that PPIs are safe both short and long term. Started Pantoprazole 7 weeks ago and am finally getting the much needed relief. Have had bouts of horrible GERD & LPR symptoms, on and off, for years with my latest flare being the worst. It's been debilitating to say the least and was no way to live. So if you need the meds, why are so many opposed to take them?

My thing is, keep up with blood tests for nutrient deficiencies and kidney function and keep an eye on sides effects IF they affect you. Same shoe doesn't fit for everyone. There is no solid proof of connection to cardiovascular issues (minus in studies where that population was likely to have the issue/s outside of PPI use-elderly & sick). Also, will probably get hate for this but simply relying on diet and lifestyle changes may not be acceptable to some. I understand more sleep, more movement, more water, quit smoking, blah blah blah. But simply telling people to never have a sip of coffee or a glass of wine again is unacceptable to some. I will take being on a PPI to keep drinking one cup of coffee a day.

To me, the risks of the PPI do not sound nearly as alarming as the risks of esophageal cancer.