Pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach, becomes inflamed. The pancreas is responsible for producing hormones and enzymes that help the body digest food. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Pancreatitis can be acute, which means it comes on suddenly and resolves quickly, or chronic, which means it lasts for a longer period of time.
Causes of Pancreatitis
The exact cause of pancreatitis is not always known, but there are several known risk factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing the condition. These risk factors include:
• Excessive alcohol consumption: Regular, heavy alcohol consumption can lead to pancreatitis.
• Gallstones: Gallstones can block the flow of bile, which can lead to pancreatitis.
• Certain medications: Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, can increase the risk of pancreatitis.
• Certain medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as cystic fibrosis and autoimmune diseases, can increase the risk of pancreatitis.
• Hereditary factors: Certain genetic mutations can increase the risk of pancreatitis.
Symptoms of Pancreatitis
The symptoms of pancreatitis vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Common symptoms of pancreatitis include:
• Abdominal pain: The pain of pancreatitis is usually located in the upper abdomen and can be severe.
• Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting may occur as a result of pancreatitis.
• Fever: A fever may be present in people with pancreatitis.
• Weight loss: Weight loss may occur in people with pancreatitis.
• Jaundice: Jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, may occur in people with pancreatitis.
Diagnosis of Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is usually diagnosed based on a physical exam, medical history, and lab tests. A doctor may order blood tests to look for elevated levels of pancreatic enzymes, which can indicate pancreatitis. Imaging tests, such as CT scans and ultrasounds, may also be used to diagnose pancreatitis.
Treatment of Pancreatitis
The treatment of pancreatitis depends on the type and severity of the condition. Treatment may include medications, such as pain relievers, antibiotics, and medications to reduce inflammation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat pancreatitis.