Also known as: Pancreatitis (Acute and Chronic)
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that can present as a sudden, severe illness (acute) or as a long-term progressive condition (chronic) causing permanent pancreatic damage.
Acute pancreatitis affects approximately 30-40 per 100,000 population annually and is increasing worldwide. Gallstones and alcohol account for 70-80% of cases.
Most acute pancreatitis is mild and self-limiting, resolving within a week with supportive care. However, 15-20% of cases are severe, with organ failure and mortality rates of 15-30%.
Chronic pancreatitis results from recurrent inflammation causing fibrosis, calcification, and progressive loss of pancreatic function, leading to malabsorption and diabetes.
People with Pancreatitis often experience the following symptoms.
Intense pain in the upper abdomen, often described as boring through to the back, worse after eating.
Persistent nausea with vomiting that does not relieve the pain.
Fatty, foul-smelling stools from fat malabsorption due to insufficient pancreatic enzymes.
Progressive weight loss from malabsorption and pain-related food avoidance.
Certain factors may increase your likelihood of developing Pancreatitis.
Common approaches to managing pancreatitis. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized treatment.
IV fluids, pain management, NPO (nothing by mouth) progressing to early enteral nutrition.
ERCP or cholecystectomy to prevent recurrence in gallstone pancreatitis.
Essential for alcohol-related pancreatitis. Continued drinking guarantees progression.
Oral enzyme supplements for chronic pancreatitis with exocrine insufficiency.
Acute: lipase elevated 3x upper limit of normal, characteristic pain, and CT findings. Chronic: CT or MRI showing calcifications, duct abnormalities, and pancreatic atrophy.
Seek emergency care for severe upper abdominal pain especially radiating to the back, persistent vomiting, fever, or rapid heartbeat. Acute pancreatitis can be life-threatening.
Steps that may help reduce the risk of developing or worsening pancreatitis.
Limit alcohol consumption
Treat gallstones
Control triglyceride levels
Avoid smoking
If left untreated or poorly managed, pancreatitis may lead to:
Mild cases are not. However, severe acute pancreatitis has a mortality rate of 15-30% and requires intensive care.
The pancreas can recover from acute pancreatitis. Chronic pancreatitis causes permanent damage that cannot be reversed.
Chronic pancreatitis can destroy insulin-producing cells, causing pancreatogenic diabetes (type 3c).
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.