Pancreatitis

What is it?

Pancreatitis (pan-kree-ah-TI-tis) occurs when the pancreas is irritated (inflamed). The pancreas is an organ that makes insulin. The pancreas also makes enzymes (digestive juices) that help your body to digest food. Pancreatitis may be a short-term problem that happens once. It may become a long-term problem that comes and goes over time.

What causes pancreatitis?

Most pancreatitis is caused by drinking too much alcohol or having gallstones. Less common causes are certain medicines, an injury to the abdomen (belly), some procedures, and some viral infections.

What are the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis?

• Severe (bad) pain that starts in the top of your abdomen and spreads to your back. This pain may be burning, stabbing, or aching and may last days or weeks.
  
  
• Fever
  
  
• Nausea (upset stomach) and vomiting (throwing up).
  
  
• Swollen abdomen (belly).
  
  
• Weight loss. You may lose weight without trying to.

How is pancreatitis diagnosed?

Your caregiver will do a medical exam and will ask you questions. You will need to have blood drawn for tests. You may have tests done on your abdomen (belly) and pancreas. These may include ultrasound, CT scan, and x-rays. Caregivers will use test results to learn why you have pancreatitis and to help them plan your treatment.

How is pancreatitis treated?

• You may need to stay in the hospital to be treated and to have more tests.
  
  
• You may need a surgery or procedure to treat your pancreatitis.
  
  
• Do not drink any alcohol. If you need help, contact the following organization for information on how to quit drinking alcohol:
  • Alcoholics Anonymous
    Web Address: http://www.alcoholics-anonymous.org.
    
  
  
  
• If your pancreatitis is caused by gallstones, you may need to eat a low fat diet.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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