Pancreatitis, tumors, gallbladder infections, kidney infections, and the use of certain medications are all common causes of increased amylase levels. Additional testing may include further blood tests, a urine test, and an ultrasound or CAT scan of your abdomen.
Once your pancreatitis is under control, your health care practitioner will help treat the underlying cause. Depending on the cause, treatment may include surgery to remove bile obstructions, gallbladder surgery, pancreas surgery or treatment for alcohol dependence.
A conservative management plan may include fasting to minimize strain on your gallbladder, receiving IV fluids, and taking medication to manage pain symptoms. Gallstone removal isn’t recommended in all cases. Once you have your initial inflammation under control, your doctor may recommend additional testing and analysis to see if removal is recommended.
The amount of fluids you need will differ depending on your overall health, your symptoms, and your medical history. Talk to your doctor about the right fluid intake for you. Be sure to take your full course of antibiotics, even if you start feeling better before your course is complete.
Medications that may raise amylase levels include opiates, birth control pills, cholinergic medications, thiazide diuretics, asparaginase, aspirin, ethacrynic acid, and methyldopa. [7] X Research source You may need to get an alternative prescription from your health care practitioner if you take your medication to manage a chronic condition. If you’re taking medication as part of a short-term treatment, it may be better to continue treatment and let your amylase levels return to normal once your course is completed. Talk to your doctor before stopping any prescription.
If you can’t take NSAIDs, you may still be able to take up to 4000 mg of acetaminophen each day. Always talk to your doctor before starting a new medication.
Ideally, you should avoid drinking altogether if you have high amylase. If you are unable to do that, keep the number of drinks you have per week as low as possible. If you need help managing an alcohol abuse problem, check in your area for support groups, recovery centers, and therapists specializing in addiction. These can offer you support and resources to help you in your journey. [10] X Research source
Always talk to your doctor before you make any major changes to your diet, especially if you are being treated for a chronic health condition.
Everyone’s caloric needs and exercise plans will vary. There’s no one-size-fits-all diet or exercise routine. Talk to your health care practitioner or a registered dietitian about finding the right mix of diet, exercise, and lifestyle adjustments for you. While losing weight is important if you are obese, be sure to avoid very low-calorie diets, as these may actually increase your risk of gallstones.
If you are in the U. S. , you can call the Center for Disease Control’s national Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) to get connected with resources in your area.
