Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. While it is typically caused by gallstones or heavy alcohol use, pancreatitis can also be a symptom of other conditions, such as cystic fibrosis or certain types of cancer. In some cases, it can even be caused by medications.
Symptoms of Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. The pain is usually felt in the upper abdomen and can sometimes radiate to the back. Other symptoms of pancreatitis include jaundice, loss of appetite, and weight loss.
Causes of Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is usually caused by gallstones or heavy alcohol use. In some cases, it can be caused by a number of other conditions, including cystic fibrosis, certain types of cancer, and certain medications. In some cases, pancreatitis can be caused by a virus or bacteria.
Treatment of Pancreatitis
Treatment of pancreatitis depends on the cause. In cases of gallstone-related pancreatitis, the gallstones may need to be removed. In cases of alcohol-related pancreatitis, the patient will need to stop drinking alcohol. In other cases, medications may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove part of the pancreas.