Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, a large organ that is located behind the stomach and is part of the digestive system. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). The symptoms of pancreatitis can vary, depending on the type and severity.
Common Symptoms of Pancreatitis
The most common symptoms of pancreatitis include:
Abdominal pain: This is usually the first symptom of pancreatitis and is usually located in the upper left side or middle of the abdomen. It may be worse after eating.
Nausea and vomiting: These can be signs of pancreatitis, although they can also be caused by other conditions.
Fever: A fever can be an indication of infection or inflammation in the pancreas.
Jaundice: This is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes due to a build-up of bilirubin in the body.
Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss can be a sign of pancreatitis.
Severe Symptoms of Pancreatitis
In more severe cases of pancreatitis, the following symptoms may be present:
Shock: Shock is a medical emergency and is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure and difficulty breathing.
Diarrhea: This can be a sign of an infection or a side effect of some medications used to treat pancreatitis.
Dehydration: Dehydration occurs when the body does not have enough fluids. It can be a symptom of pancreatitis.
Confusion: This can be a sign of a serious complication of pancreatitis, such as sepsis.
Blood clots: These can be a sign of infection or inflammation in the pancreas.
If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
