What Is Pancreatitis?

What is pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is when the pancreas is inflamed. The pancreas is a gland located in the upper abdomen. It makes juices that help digest food and produces hormones that help control your blood sugar.

Pancreatitis can range in severity from mild to life-threatening. Mild acute pancreatitis usually clears up within a few days with treatment. Severe pancreatitis can cause serious complications, such as infection, bleeding, and organ failure.

What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?

The most common symptoms of pancreatitis are:

- Abdominal pain

- Nausea

- Vomiting

- Diarrhea

- Fever

- Rapid heart rate

Severe pancreatitis can cause more serious symptoms, such as:

- Confusion

- Low blood pressure

- Organ failure

What causes pancreatitis?

The most common causes of pancreatitis are:

- Gallstones

- Alcohol abuse

- Certain medications

- Trauma

- Infections

How is pancreatitis diagnosed?

Your doctor will diagnose pancreatitis based on your symptoms, a physical examination, and blood tests. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, may also be used to help diagnose pancreatitis.

How is pancreatitis treated?

Treatment for pancreatitis depends on the severity of the disease. Mild pancreatitis typically requires hospitalization for a few days. Treatment may include:

- IV fluids

- Pain medication

- Anti-nausea medication

Severe pancreatitis may require more intensive treatment, such as:

- Surgery to remove the gallbladder or pancreas

- Antibiotics

- Surgery to drain infected fluid from the pancreas

- Nutritional support

What is the prognosis for pancreatitis?

The prognosis for pancreatitis depends on the severity of the disease. Mild pancreatitis usually resolves within a few days with treatment. Severe pancreatitis can be life-threatening, but early diagnosis and treatment can improve the chances of a successful recovery.

How can I prevent pancreatitis?

There are several things you can do to help prevent pancreatitis, including:

- Avoid alcohol abuse

- Eat a healthy diet

- Maintain a healthy weight

- Get regular exercise

- If you have gallstones, talk to your doctor about surgery to remove them