An inflamed pancreas can be very painful and can cause a variety of symptoms. The pain is usually felt in the upper abdomen, behind the breastbone, and may radiate to the back or chest. It can also be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. The pain may be worse after eating, particularly after eating fatty or greasy foods.
Symptoms of an Inflamed Pancreas
The main symptom of an inflamed pancreas is abdominal pain. This pain can range from mild to severe and is usually felt in the upper abdomen, behind the breastbone. Other symptoms may include:
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Loss of appetite
• Jaundice
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
Causes of an Inflamed Pancreas
The most common cause of an inflamed pancreas is pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas caused by damage to the organ. This damage can be caused by a number of things, including gallstones, alcohol abuse, certain medications, or an infection. Other causes of pancreatitis include certain autoimmune diseases, certain genetic conditions, and blockages in the pancreas.
Treatment for an Inflamed Pancreas
The treatment for an inflamed pancreas depends on the cause of the inflammation. If the cause is gallstones, the treatment may involve removing the stones. If the cause is alcohol abuse, treatment may involve abstaining from alcohol and possibly taking medications to reduce inflammation. If the cause is an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the cause is an autoimmune disease, medications may be prescribed to suppress the immune system. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the blockage.