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Pancreatitis
Urgent
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.
Body System
Digestive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Pancreatitis can become serious and requires medical assessment. Seek urgent care for severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fever, abdominal swelling, weakness, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Emergency care is needed for severe pain with fainting, confusion, severe breathing difficulty, or sudden deterioration.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
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 3
Blood In Vomit
Lower Abdominal Pain
Vomiting
Causes 2
Common causes of pancreatitis include gallstones and heavy alcohol use. Other causes include certain medicines, high levels of triglycerides or calcium in the blood, abdominal injury, infections, inherited conditions and abnormalities of the pancreatic or bile ducts. Some cases occur after medical procedures. Chronic pancreatitis may develop after repeated pancreatic inflammation.
Alcohol
Inflammation
Risk Factors
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.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
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
Key Prevention Tips
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
Prevention Guidance
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.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Low Fat Diet
Reduces pancreatic workload.
Boiled Vegetables
Easy to digest.
Lean Protein
Supports recovery.
Adequate Fluids
Prevents dehydration.
Foods to Avoid
Alcohol
Must be completely avoided.
Fried Foods
Increase pancreatic stress.
High Fat Foods
May worsen symptoms.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas.
Alcohol use and gallstones are common causes.
Severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting may occur.
Blood tests and imaging studies are commonly used.
Avoid excessive alcohol and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.