Symptoms of Severe Pancreatitis
Severe pancreatitis can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, and rapid heartbeat. In some cases, the pain associated with severe pancreatitis can be so intense that it can cause a person to go into shock. Other symptoms may include jaundice, confusion, and difficulty breathing.
Diagnosis of Severe Pancreatitis
Severe pancreatitis is usually diagnosed with a physical exam, imaging tests, and laboratory tests. A physical exam may reveal abdominal tenderness, tenderness in the back, and swelling in the abdomen. Imaging tests such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI may be used to determine the extent of the inflammation. Laboratory tests may also be used to measure levels of pancreatic enzymes and measure levels of pancreatic hormones.
Treatment of Severe Pancreatitis
Treatment for severe pancreatitis typically involves managing symptoms with pain medications, IV fluids, and other supportive therapies. In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to help fight any infection. Surgery may be necessary in some cases to remove any blockages or to repair or replace damaged organs. In severe cases, a person may need to undergo a procedure called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to repair or remove any blockages in the pancreas.