Pancreatitis Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Pancreatitis Overview Pancreatitis refers to inflammation of the pancreas, which is a vital organ that aids digestion and regulates blood sugar. Pancreatitis might be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-term), and it varies in severity. Types Acute pancreatitis: This refers to a sudden inflammation of the pancreas that can range from mild discomfort to a life-threatening condition. Acute pancreatitis usually resolves with treatment, but complications can arise if left untreated. It can also be divided into subtypes, a representative subtype includes:Necrotizing pancreatitis: It is a severe form of acute pancreatitis where the pancreatic tissue becomes damaged to the point of necrosis (tissue death). Necrotising pancreatitis is a potentially life-threatening complication that occurs in approximately 20% of the severe cases of acute pancreatitis.Chronic pancreatitis: This refers to long-term inflammation that leads to permanent damage to the pancreas. Over time, chronic pancreatitis can impair pancreatic function, affecting digestion and insulin production.Other types (less common): These include:Autoimmune pancreatitis: This is a rare form of pancreatitis that is caused when the immune system starts attacking the pancreas. Autoimmune pancreatitis is often associated with other autoimmune conditions and can be treated with steroids to reduce inflammation.Hereditary pancreatitis: This is a rare genetic condition in which repeated episodes of pancreatitis occur, often starting in childhood or adolescence. Individuals with hereditary pancreatitis may develop chronic pancreatitis at an earlier age. Causes and risk factors The causes and risk factors of pancreatitis have been enumerated below.Acute pancreatitis causes:Gallstone pancreatitis: It occurs when a gallstone blocks the bile duct or the pancreatic duct—causing digestive enzymes to build up in the pancreas—leading to inflammation of the pancreas. Gallstone pancreatitis is one of the most common causes of acute pancreatitis.Alcohol consumption: Heavy drinking is a leading cause of acute pancreatitis.High blood triglyceride levels: Elevated fat levels in the blood can contribute to acute pancreatitis.Medications: Certain drugs, like steroids, diuretics, and some antibiotics, can trigger inflammation, which induces acute pancreatitis.Infections: Viral infections like mumps or hepatitis can affect the pancreas.Trauma: Injury to the abdomen, e.g., such as that from surgery or accidents, may lead to acute pancreatitis.Genetic disorders: Rare genetic mutations can cause pancreatitis, especially in younger individuals.Chronic pancreatitis causes:Prolonged alcohol abuse: The most common cause of chronic pancreatitis is prolonged alcohol abuse, where repeated bouts of acute pancreatitis (due to alcohol-induced inflammation) cause lasting damage.Cystic fibrosis: This inherited disease can lead to thickened pancreatic secretions, resulting in chronic pancreatitis.Autoimmune pancreatitis: The immune system attacks the pancreas, leading to chronic inflammation.Hereditary conditions: Inherited mutations or conditions like hyperparathyroidism can lead to chronic pancreatitis.Obstructions in the pancreatic duct: Blockages or narrowing can lead to chronic inflammation.Risk factorsAcute pancreatitis risk factors:Gallstones: Women, especially those who are overweight, have a higher risk of developing gallstones, and by extension acute pancreatitis.Heavy alcohol use: Chronic, excessive alcohol consumption is a significant risk factor.High triglyceride levels: Can lead to pancreatitis, especially when levels are extremely elevated.Certain medications: Some drugs, including steroids, diuretics, and specific antibiotics.Trauma or surgery: Injuries or complications from surgeries affecting the abdomen can cause acute pancreatitis.Chronic pancreatitis risk factors:Long-term alcohol use: A history of heavy drinking significantly increases the risk of chronic pancreatitis.Family history: Genetic predisposition can contribute to the development of chronic pancreatitis.Age: Chronic pancreatitis is more common in adults aged 30-40, especially in individuals with a history of acute episodes.Smoking: Cigarette smoking can increase the risk of chronic pancreatitis. Symptoms The symptoms of pancreatitis have been enumerated below.Acute pancreatitis symptoms:Severe upper abdominal pain (often radiating to the back and worsened by eating).Nausea (urge to vomit) and vomitingFeverRapid pulseSwollen abdomen that is tender to touchJaundice (in cases of gallstone-related pancreatitis)Chronic pancreatitis symptoms:Persistent upper abdominal pain that may become less severe over timeWeight loss (due to malabsorption of nutrients)Steatorrhea (fatty, foul-smelling stools due to poor fat digestion)Diabetes (as pancreatic function declines, insulin production may be affected)Nausea and vomiting Diagnosis The various strategies used to diagnose pancreatitis have been discussed below.Physical examination: This involves checking for abdominal tenderness or swelling.Blood tests: Elevated levels of pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase) indicate pancreatitis.Imaging tests:Ultrasound: Can detect gallstones or other obstructions in the pancreas.CT: Provides detailed images to assess inflammation or complications.MRI: Provides detailed images to assess any blockages or changes in the pancreas.Endoscopic ultrasound: A more detailed imaging tool that is often used to assess chronic pancreatitis or complications.Biopsy: In rare cases, a biopsy of the pancreas may be needed to confirm chronic pancreatitis. Treatment The various treatment modalities available for pancreatitis have been enumerated below.Acute pancreatitis treatment/management:Hospitalisation: Most people with acute pancreatitis require a stay in the hospital for observation and supportive care.Fasting: Patients are usually not allowed to eat or drink for several days to allow the pancreas to heal.Intravenous (IV) fluids: To maintain hydration and support overall health.Pain management: Pain killers are provided to control pain.Antibiotics: These are provided if an infection is suspected.Surgery: In cases where gallstones or blockages are present, removal or drainage may be necessary.Chronic pancreatitis treatment/management:Pain management: Chronic pancreatitis often requires long-term pain management strategies.Enzyme replacement therapy: If digestion is impaired, patients may be recommended pancreatic enzyme supplements.Insulin therapy: This is recommended for patients who develop diabetes.Dietary changes: Low-fat, high-protein diets can reduce symptoms and improve digestion.Endoscopic or surgical interventions: These are used to remove obstructions or drain pseudocysts (fluid-filled sac-like structures in the abdomen). Prevention Various strategies to prevent the occurrence of pancreatitis have been enumerated below.Avoiding heavy alcohol consumption: Limiting alcohol intake reduces the risk of both acute and chronic pancreatitis.Maintaining a healthy diet: Avoiding high-fat diets can help prevent obesity and elevated triglyceride levels.Managing triglyceride levels: Regular check-ups and managing conditions like high cholesterol or diabetes can lower the risk.Quitting smoking: As smoking significantly increases the risk of both acute and chronic pancreatitis, quitting it may be a good preventive strategy.Treating underlying conditions: Managing gallstones, high triglyceride levels, or hereditary conditions can reduce the chances of developing pancreatitis.Regular check-ups: For individuals with a history of pancreatitis, regular monitoring can help catch issues early and prevent further complications.