Pancreatitis is a serious medical condition that affects the pancreas, a vital organ located in the abdomen, and can cause a wide range of symptoms and complications. Pancreatitis is typically classified into two forms: acute and chronic.
Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is typically caused by gallstones or alcohol use and is often reversible with appropriate medical treatment. Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include sudden upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Treatment usually involves hospitalization, intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and pain relievers.
Chronic Pancreatitis
Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term condition caused by damage to the pancreas from repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis. Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis include abdominal pain, weight loss, and malabsorption of nutrients from food. Treatment is focused on managing pain and preventing further damage to the pancreas. This may include dietary changes, medications, and, in some cases, surgery.