Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. It is the organ that secretes digestive enzymes into the gastrointestinal tract and also synthesizes and secretes insulin and glucagon. Pancreatitis occurs when pancreatic enzymes that digest food are activated in the pancreas instead of the small intestine. It may be acute  or chronic.

Acute Pancreatitis 

Acute pancreatitis occurs suddenly and usually resolves in a few days with treatment. Acute pancreatitis can be a life-threatening illness with severe complications.

Symptoms may include:

• A swollen and tender abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• A rapid pulse
• Dehydration and low blood pressure
• Heart, lungs, or kidneys can fail
• If bleeding occurs in the pancreas, shock and even death may follow.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas which gets worse over time and leads to permanent damage. 

Causes of chronic pancreatitis are

• High levels of blood fats
• Heavy alcohol use
• Certain autoimmune conditions
• Cystic fibrosis
• Hereditary disorders of the pancreas
• High levels of calcium in the blood
• Some medicines
• Unknown causes

 Treatment for Pancreatitis requires a stay in the hospital and involves:

• Pain medicines
• Stopping food/fluid by mouth to limit the activity of the pancreas
• Fluids given through a vein (IV)