Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, a gland behind the stomach that produces digestive juices and hormones such as insulin. When the pancreas becomes inflamed, these digestive juices can start to irritate the gland itself. Acute pancreatitis comes on suddenly and often improves with treatment, while chronic pancreatitis develops over time and can cause permanent damage.

Pancreatitis affects adults of various ages and is an important cause of hospital admission for abdominal pain. Acute pancreatitis is more common than the chronic form. Risk is higher in people who have gallstones or who drink alcohol heavily over a long period. Both men and women can be affected, depending on the underlying cause.

The main symptom is severe pain in the upper abdomen that may spread to the back. In acute pancreatitis the pain often starts suddenly and may be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and fever. Chronic pancreatitis can cause recurring or ongoing pain, along with weight loss and digestive problems as the pancreas becomes less able to do its job.

The two most common causes are gallstones, which can block the pancreas, and drinking large amounts of alcohol. Other causes include certain medical conditions and, less often, some medicines. Risk is higher in people with gallstones or heavy, long-term alcohol use. Chronic pancreatitis is most often linked to many years of alcohol consumption.

Doctors diagnose pancreatitis using a combination of symptoms, blood tests, and imaging. Blood tests can show raised levels of pancreatic enzymes that point to inflammation. Scans such as ultrasound or CT help confirm the diagnosis, find a cause such as gallstones, and check for complications. In chronic pancreatitis, additional tests may assess longer-term damage.

Acute pancreatitis is usually treated in hospital with fluids, pain relief, and supportive care while the pancreas recovers, along with treating the cause, such as removing gallstones. Chronic pancreatitis focuses on managing pain, supporting digestion, and addressing causes like alcohol. Stopping alcohol is important in both forms. Your care team tailors treatment to the type and severity.

Some cases can be prevented by reducing key risks. Limiting or avoiding alcohol lowers the chance of both acute and chronic pancreatitis. Maintaining a healthy weight and a balanced diet supports the gallbladder and reduces gallstone risk, a common trigger. Anyone who has had pancreatitis should follow medical advice closely to help prevent further episodes.