Acute pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach in the upper abdomen that produces digestive enzymes and hormones. Acute pancreatitis can range in severity from mild to life-threatening. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications.
What Causes Acute Pancreatitis?
Acute pancreatitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including alcohol consumption, gallstones, certain medications, certain infections, trauma, and some metabolic disorders. Alcohol is the most common cause of acute pancreatitis. Gallstones are the second most common cause. Other less common causes include certain medications, such as diuretics, certain infections, such as mumps or hepatitis B, trauma, and certain metabolic disorders, such as hypertriglyceridemia.
Risk Factors for Acute Pancreatitis
Risk factors for acute pancreatitis include alcohol use, gallstones, certain medications, certain infections, and certain metabolic disorders. Other risk factors include smoking, being overweight, and having diabetes.
Symptoms of Acute Pancreatitis
The most common symptoms of acute pancreatitis are abdominal pain and tenderness, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Other symptoms may include jaundice, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, and low blood pressure.
Diagnosis of Acute Pancreatitis
Diagnosis of acute pancreatitis is made based on the patient's symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Imaging tests, such as an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan, can also be used to diagnose acute pancreatitis.
Treatment of Acute Pancreatitis
Treatment of acute pancreatitis depends on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be treated with pain medications and lifestyle modifications, such as a low-fat diet and avoiding alcohol. Severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous fluids. In some cases, surgery may be needed.