Can You Survive Acute Pancreatitis?
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas, a large organ located behind the stomach that produces enzymes that help digest food. In people with acute pancreatitis, the pancreas becomes inflamed and begins to digest itself, which can lead to severe abdominal pain and other complications.
Pancreatitis Symptoms
The most common symptom of acute pancreatitis is severe abdominal pain that can radiate to the back. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and rapid pulse.
Diagnosing Acute Pancreatitis
To diagnose acute pancreatitis, your doctor will likely do a physical exam and order blood tests to check for high levels of enzymes called amylase and lipase. Your doctor may also use an imaging test such as an ultrasound or CT scan to look for signs of inflammation in the pancreas.
Treating Acute Pancreatitis
Treatment for acute pancreatitis will depend on the severity of the inflammation. In mild cases, treatment may include rest, fluids, and pain medications. In more severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary and treatment may include intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and medications to reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue or drain fluid from the pancreas.
Can You Survive Acute Pancreatitis?
The prognosis for acute pancreatitis depends on the severity of the inflammation and how quickly it is treated. Most people with mild cases of acute pancreatitis recover completely within a few days or weeks. However, some people may develop complications such as infection or organ failure, which can be life-threatening. It is important to seek medical care right away if you experience any of the symptoms of acute pancreatitis.