What is Pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, causing severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can be acute or chronic, often linked to alcohol consumption or gallstones. Treatment includes pain management, fluids, and sometimes surgery. Early diagnosis is crucial for better outcomes.
Types of Pancreatitis
There are two types of Pancreatitis:
- Acute Pancreatitis
- Chronic Pancreatitis
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Get A Second OpinionWhat are the symptoms of pancreatitis?
Most people with acute or chronic pancreatitis have discomfort in the center-left of the upper abdomen as their major symptom. Its symptoms are as follows:
Acute Pancreatitis Symptoms
- Pain starts slowly or suddenly in the upper abdominal area
- Your pain may spread to the back
- Mild or severe pain
- Pain that may last for several days
- Fever
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Swollen or tender abdomen
- Fast heart rate
Chronic Pancreatitis Symptoms
- Pain in the upper abdomen or no pain at all
- Pain that may spread to the back
- Pain that may worsen after eating
- Diarrhoea
- Nausea
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
People with chronic pancreatitis may also develop steatorrhea, which is characterised by fatty faeces and a bad odour.
What are the causes of pancreatitis?
- Smoking
- Genetics
- Autoimmune conditions
- Gallstones
- High triglycerides
- Pancreatic cancer
- Abdominal surgery
- Side effects of certain medications
- Cystic fibrosis
- Injury to the abdomen
Chronic pancreatitis can be caused by high blood calcium or triglycerides (a form of fat)
When To See a Doctor?
One should consult the doctor if they are experiencing:
- Severe abdominal pain
- Weakness
- Very fast heartbeat
- Difficulty in sitting properly due to stomach pain
Get the best treatment for Pancreatitis from our General Physicians and doctors at Medicover Hospitals.
Risk Factors of Pancreatitis
The risk of pancreatitis is increased by many factors. Few such factors are:
- High alcohol consumption (more than two drinks per day)
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Genetics
A combination of risk factors, like smoking and having a family history of pancreatitis, increases the chances of getting pancreatitis.
The risk of acute pancreatitis progressing to chronic pancreatitis is further increased by smoking or consuming alcohol.
What are the complications of pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis might lead to complications in some patients. These consequences are rare in individuals with acute pancreatitis; however, they are more prevalent in those with chronic pancreatitis. Few such complications are:
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Malnutrition
- Diabetes
- Pancreatic Infections
When tissue and other residues build on the pancreas, pseudocysts can develop. Usually, these go away on their own. However, if they burst, infection and bleeding can occur, which can be dangerous if not managed properly.
How can pancreatitis be prevented?
One can protect their pancreas and lower the chance of pancreatitis and other significant health problems by:
- Limiting Alcohol Consumption:
- Eating a Heart-Healthy Diet:
- Exercising Regularly and Lose Excess Weight:
- Skipping crash diets:
- Quitting smoking:
What are the common Diagnosis for pancreatitis?
Blood Tests:
- Serum amylase: Elevated levels indicate pancreas inflammation.
- Serum lipase is also elevated in pancreatitis: it can remain elevated longer than amylase.
- Complete blood count (CBC): To check for signs of infection or inflammation.
Imaging Studies:
- Abdominal ultrasound
- CT scan (Computed Tomography)
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)
What are the treatment options for pancreatitis?
- Mild acute pancreatitis resolves with rest and medication, severe cases may require surgery.
- Surgery, such as cholecystectomy for gallstones, is recommended promptly to reduce complications.
- Procedures like fluid drainage and tissue removal may be necessary for abscesses or pseudocysts.
- Endoscopic Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is used to treat bile or pancreatic duct obstructions.
- Chronic pancreatitis treatment includes medication, vitamins, diabetes management, and potentially surgery.
