Amylase is mainly secreted by the pancreas in the human body, in general, the doctor paste according to the value of amylase to determine whether the patient is suffering from pancreatitis, although when the human body has a cold or mumps also paste caused by amylase increase, but the doctor will also take into account the patient's other symptoms in the use of amylase to determine whether they are suffering from pancreatitis.
Cause 1
Amylase is a pancreatic enzyme that is secreted during the digestive process that converts starch into sugar. The normal range for amylase is between 23-85 units per liter of blood. Doctors usually use the amylase test to diagnose inflammation of the pancreas, also known as pancreatitis. Cholecystitis, intestinal obstruction, acute pancreatitis, and certain medications are common causes of amylase being elevated above normal levels.
The pancreas is a gland located at the back of the stomach that releases hormones and enzymes to help the body break down and absorb nutrients from food. Autoimmune diseases, alcoholism and blockage of the pancreatic duct can lead to pancreatitis. High amylase levels are observed when the pancreas becomes inflamed. Symptoms of pancreatitis include nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Your doctor will determine the best treatment plan based on the cause.
Cause #2
Cholecystitis involves inflammation of the gallbladder, a small organ that plays a role in fat digestion. The gallbladder stores and releases bile, which is a digestive fluid made up of emulsified fats. Blockage of the bile ducts is the most common cause of cholecystitis. A blood test done during an attack of cholecystitis will usually show high levels of amylase. Most episodes will last for a few days, after which the amylase usually returns to normal levels.
Cause 3
The intestines are designed to allow food to pass through the digestive tract and absorb nutrients. Undigested food and digestive juices can be retained in the intestines when an infarction occurs and lead to elevated amylase levels. Common symptoms include diarrhea, flatulence, constipation and cramping. Most intestinal infarcts are able to resolve on their own. However, if the infarction is due to an intestinal disorder, surgery is usually recommended.
Cause 4
Pancreatic cancer can also cause high amylase levels. Checking amylase levels is sometimes used to see how well pancreatic cancer treatment is working. Early symptoms of pancreatic cancer include dark urine, fatigue, weight loss, nausea and abdominal discomfort. Surgery is often used to relieve the blockage of the pancreas caused by the cancer. Amylase levels may continue to rise until the cancer is controlled.
Cause 5