Disease Comparison

Overview

Vulvodynia

Vulvodynia is a chronic pain disorder affecting the vulva, the external female genital area. It may cause burning, stinging, aching, itching, or sharp pain that lasts for months or longer. Pain may be localized to one area or affect a larger part of the vulva. Symptoms may be triggered or worsened by sexual activity, tampon insertion, sitting, exercise, tight clothing, or pressure on the area.

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that produces digestive enzymes and hormones such as insulin. It may occur suddenly as acute pancreatitis or persist or recur as chronic pancreatitis. Symptoms commonly include upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back, nausea and vomiting. Severe disease can cause complications involving digestion and other organs.

Symptoms

Shared

None

Only in Left Disease

Breast Lump Skin Redness

Only in Right Disease

Blood In Vomit Lower Abdominal Pain Vomiting

Causes

Shared

None

Only in Left Disease

Hormonal Imbalance

Only in Right Disease

Alcohol Inflammation

Diagnosis

Vulvodynia

Diagnosis is based on the pattern and duration of vulvar pain and requires evaluation for other possible causes. A healthcare professional may take a detailed medical history and perform a pelvic and vulvar examination. A cotton-swab test may be used to identify areas of tenderness. Urine tests, vaginal tests, or other investigations may be performed to exclude urinary infections, yeast infections, skin disorders, or other conditions.

Pancreatitis

Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination, blood tests and imaging. Blood tests commonly measure pancreatic enzymes such as lipase and may assess liver function and other abnormalities. Ultrasound, CT or MRI can help identify inflammation, gallstones or structural problems. Additional tests may be required when the cause is unclear or chronic pancreatitis is suspected.

Prevention

Vulvodynia

Because the exact cause of vulvodynia is unknown, there is no reliable method to prevent it. Avoiding known irritants may help reduce symptoms in people who are sensitive to them. Wearing loose clothing, using gentle unscented products, avoiding unnecessary irritation, and addressing pelvic floor problems when present may be helpful. Persistent or unexplained vulvar pain should be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Pancreatitis

The risk of pancreatitis can sometimes be reduced by avoiding heavy alcohol use, not smoking and maintaining healthy blood triglyceride levels. Treatment of gallstones or other underlying conditions may prevent recurrent episodes. People who have previously had pancreatitis should follow medical advice about diet, alcohol, medicines and treatment of the underlying cause.

Risk Factors

Vulvodynia

The factors that determine who develops vulvodynia are not fully understood. Possible contributors include previous vulvar irritation or injury, hormonal changes, pelvic floor muscle dysfunction, and increased sensitivity to inflammation or physical pressure. Symptoms may be aggravated by sexual activity, prolonged sitting, tight clothing, cycling, or other activities that place pressure on the vulva.

Pancreatitis

Risk factors include heavy alcohol consumption, gallstones, smoking, high blood triglyceride levels, certain genetic conditions and a family history of pancreatic disease. Previous episodes of pancreatitis can increase the risk of recurrence or chronic disease. Some medicines and medical conditions may also increase risk.