Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. The inflammation may be sudden (acute) or ongoing (chronic). Acute pancreatitis usually involves a single "attack," after which the pancreas returns to normal. Severe acute pancreatitis can be life threatening. With chronic pancreatitis, permanent damage occurs to the pancreas and its function, often leading to fibrosis (scarring).

The most common causes of pancreatitis are:

• gallstones that block the pancreatic duct
• alcohol abuse, which can lead to blockage of the small pancreatic ductules
  

Common Symptoms may include:

• nausea
• vomiting
• fast pulse
• feeling ill
• fever
• swelling in the upper abdomen
• ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavty)
• dropping blood pressure
• severe abdominal pain in upper abdomen (with acute pancreatitis)
• The symptoms of pancreatitis may resemble other conditions or medical problems (Cholecystitis, etc.)

How is pancreatitis diagnosed?

• abdominal x-rays or scans
• endoscopic exam of the pancreatic ducts
• blood tests

Specific treatment will be determined by your physician, based on:

• your overall health and medical history
• extent of the disease
• your tolerance of specific medicines, procedures, or therapies
• expectations for the course of the disease
• your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

• hospitalization for observation and intravenous feeding
• surgery
• antibiotics
• avoiding alcohol (if the pancreatitis is caused by alcohol abuse)