What is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the pancreas. When the pancreas is inflamed, the powerful digestive enzymes it makes can damage its tissue. The inflamed pancreas can cause release of inflammatory cells and toxins that may harm your lungs, kidneys and heart.

There are two forms of pancreatitis:

1. Acute pancreatitis is a sudden and short bout of inflammation.
2. Chronic pancreatitis is ongoing inflammation.

What Causes Pancreatitis?

• Medications (many can irritate the pancreas).
• High triglyceride levels (fat in the blood).
• Infections.
• Abdominal injury.
• Metabolic disorders such as diabetes.
• Genetic disorders such as cystic fibrosis.

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What Are The Symptoms of Pancreatitis?

• Moderate to severe upper abdominal pain that may spread to your back.
• Pain that comes on suddenly or builds up over a few days.
• Pain that worsens when eating.
• Swollen, tender abdomen.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Fever.
• Faster than usual heart rate.

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• Constant pain in your upper belly that radiates to your back. This pain may be disabling.
• Diarrhea and weight loss because your pancreas isn’t releasing enough enzymes to break down food.
• Upset stomach and vomiting

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How is Pancreatitis Treated?

• Hospitalization with supportive care and monitoring.
• Pain medication to provide comfort.
• Endoscopic procedure or surgery to remove a gallstone, other blockage or damaged part of the pancreas.
• Supplemental pancreatic enzymes and insulin, if your pancreas isn’t functioning well.

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Can Pancreatitis Be Prevented?

• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Get regular exercise.
• Stop smoking.
• Avoid alcohol.

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