In pancreatitis, digestive enzymes become active inside the pancreas and start to damage the gland. Acute pancreatitis usually presents with sudden, severe upper abdominal pain and may require hospitalization. Chronic pancreatitis is long-term inflammation that can lead to permanent damage, pain, and difficulty digesting food. Common causes include gallstones, heavy alcohol use, high triglycerides, and certain medications, but sometimes no cause is found.
The hallmark symptom is upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, often with nausea and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to serious complications.
Call the office promptly if you have recurrent upper abdominal pain, especially if it radiates to the back, or if you’ve had pancreatitis before and notice similar symptoms returning.
Seek emergency care immediately for sudden severe upper abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, high fever, or if you feel very ill, as pancreatitis can be life-threatening.
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, elevated pancreatic enzymes in blood tests, and imaging (such as CT or ultrasound) to look for inflammation, gallstones, and complications.
Treatment of acute pancreatitis usually requires hospital care with IV fluids, pain control, and treatment of the cause (such as removing gallstones). Chronic pancreatitis management focuses on pain control, enzyme replacement, and addressing risk factors.
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