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If your pancreas suddenly becomes irritated or inflamed,
you have acute pancreatitis. This is most often caused by gallstones.
It can also be caused by drinking alcohol. Acute pancreatitis is often
very painful. Emergency medical treatment is usually needed.
Symptoms of Acute Pancreatitis
Symptoms of acute pancreatitis can come on quickly. It is common to feel severe
pain in your upper abdomen that goes through to your back. Other symptoms
may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal swelling and tenderness
- Fever
- Rapid pulse
- Shallow, fast breathing
Causes of Pancreatitis
One of the most common causes of pancreatitis is gallstones.
These are hard stones that form in the gallbladder, an organ near the
pancreas. The pancreas and gallbladder share a passage into the small
intestine called the common bile duct. If gallstones block this duct,
fluid can't leave the pancreas. The fluid backs up and causes pancreatitis.
Pancreatitis can also be caused by alcohol, certain medications, trauma,
and infection. Problems with the structure of the pancreas may also
be a cause.
Your Evaluation
Blood tests help find whether your symptoms are due to acute
pancreatitis. A health history and physical exam also help your doctor
make a diagnosis. Once pancreatitis is diagnosed, you may have more
tests to help find the cause.
Possible Tests
If your doctor suspects gallstones, a test called an ultrasound
may be done. This test rises sound waves to create a picture of your
pancreas and the area around it. You may also have other tests. A CT
(computed topography) scan shows how much the pancreas is inflamed.
An ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography) examines the
common bile duct fur gallstones.
Treating Acute Pancreatitis
If you have acute pancreatitis, you may be in the hospital
for a few days. During some of this time, you probably won't be able
to eat or drink. This rests your pancreas while it gets better. Nutrition
and fluids are given through an intravenous (IV) line. You will also
be given medication to help ease any pain.
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