Symptoms of Nonalcoholic Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a gland behind the stomach that is part of the digestive system. It secretes enzymes to aid in the digestion of food. When pancreatitis develops, the enzymes begin to attack the pancreatic tissue. Two types of pancreatitis are acute and chronic. Chronic pancreatitis is caused by long-term alcohol abuse. Acute pancreatitis has many causes, including recent abdominal surgery or injury, gallstones, some medications and high calcium or triglyceride levels. With acute pancreatitis, symptoms generally develop suddenly.

Abdominal Pain

• Acute pancreatitis often causes severe abdominal pain that is typically felt in the center of the abdomen. In many cases, the pain becomes worse immediately after eating. When the pain is severe, it can radiate to the back and shoulders. With pancreatitis, you can often make the pain subside by curling into a ball or leaning forward. The abdomen may also appear swollen or be tender to the touch.

Nausea

• Nausea is another common sign of acute pancreatitis, and it is often accompanied by vomiting. This is a common symptom of illnesses and conditions relating to the digestive tract, however. When it is experienced alone, it is not likely a sign of pancreatitis.

Jaundice

• People with acute pancreatitis may develop jaundice--a condition in which the skin and whites of the eyes take on a yellowish color. When jaundice develops in people with pancreatitis, it is because bile is not draining properly.

Other Symptoms

• Additional symptoms that may be noticed as a result of acute pancreatitis include fever, unexplained weight loss and a more rapid heart rate than normal. In severe cases, pancreatitis can cause internal bleeding, which can lead to shock. The heart, kidneys and lungs can also begin to fail.