Symptoms
Acute Pancreatitis:
Upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back
Abdominal pain that worsens after eating
Nausea
Vomiting
Fever
Rapid pulse
Swollen or tender abdomen
Chronic Pancreatitis:
Upper abdominal pain
Abdominal pain that worsens after eating
Unintentional weight loss
Oily, foul-smelling stools (steatorrhea)
Diabetes
Causes
Acute Pancreatitis:
Gallstones
Alcohol abuse
High triglyceride levels in the blood
Certain medications
Abdominal trauma
Infections
Surgery
Cystic fibrosis
Pancreatic cancer (rare)
Idiopathic (unknown cause)
Chronic Pancreatitis:
Alcohol abuse (most common)
Cystic fibrosis
Hereditary pancreatitis
Autoimmune conditions
Blockage of the pancreatic duct
Idiopathic (unknown cause)
Medicine Used
Acute Pancreatitis:
Pain relievers (opioids or non-opioid analgesics)
Intravenous (IV) fluids
Antibiotics (if infection is present)
Enzyme replacement therapy (in some cases)
Chronic Pancreatitis:
Pain relievers (opioids or non-opioid analgesics)
Pancreatic enzyme supplements (to aid digestion)
Insulin (if diabetes develops)
Steroids (for autoimmune pancreatitis)
Is Communicable
Pancreatitis is not communicable. It is not caused by a virus or bacteria that can be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Reduce Alcohol Consumption: Limit or avoid alcohol intake.
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Follow a low-fat diet.
Manage Gallstones: Seek treatment for gallstones, if present.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of pancreatitis.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids.
Consult a Doctor: Regularly consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have a family history of pancreatitis or other risk factors.
How long does an outbreak last?
Acute Pancreatitis: Symptoms usually resolve within a few days to a week with treatment. Severe cases can take longer.
Chronic Pancreatitis: This is a long-term condition. Symptoms can be persistent or intermittent (flare-ups). Management focuses on reducing pain and improving quality of life.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical History and Physical Exam: The doctor will ask about symptoms, medical history, and conduct a physical examination.
Blood Tests: To measure levels of pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase), liver function, kidney function, and blood sugar.
Imaging Tests:
Abdominal Ultrasound: To visualize the pancreas, gallbladder, and bile ducts.
CT Scan: To provide detailed images of the pancreas and surrounding organs.
MRI: To provide detailed images of the pancreas and bile ducts.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS): A scope with an ultrasound probe is inserted through the mouth to visualize the pancreas.
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): A scope is used to inject dye into the pancreatic and bile ducts, which are then visualized with X-rays.
Stool Tests: To check for fat malabsorption (steatorrhea) in chronic pancreatitis.
Timeline of Symptoms
Acute Pancreatitis:
Onset: Sudden, often severe upper abdominal pain.
First Few Hours: Pain intensifies, possibly radiating to the back. Nausea and vomiting develop.
Next Few Days: If untreated, symptoms worsen, leading to fever, rapid pulse, and dehydration.
Resolution (with treatment): Symptoms gradually improve within a few days to a week.
Chronic Pancreatitis:
Early Stages: Intermittent abdominal pain, often after eating.
Progression: Pain becomes more frequent and severe. Weight loss and oily stools develop.
Late Stages: Diabetes may develop. Pain can be constant or intermittent.
Important Considerations
Complications: Both acute and chronic pancreatitis can lead to serious complications, including:
Pancreatic pseudocyst
Infection
Kidney failure
Breathing problems
Diabetes
Pancreatic cancer (increased risk with chronic pancreatitis)
Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and improve outcomes.
Lifestyle Changes: Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol and following a low-fat diet, are essential for managing chronic pancreatitis.
Multidisciplinary Approach: Management of pancreatitis often requires a multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterologists, surgeons, pain specialists, and dietitians.