What is pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ that helps with digestion and blood sugar control. It can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (developing gradually over years).

Symptoms

  • Severe pain in the upper abdomen, often spreading to the back
  • Nausea and vomiting
Seek prompt medical attention Severe abdominal pain, especially with vomiting, needs prompt evaluation rather than waiting to see if it improves on its own.

Causes

Gallstones and heavy alcohol use are the two most common causes of pancreatitis. Other causes include certain medicines and high triglyceride levels.

How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves blood tests and an ultrasound. In some cases, an ERCP is used, especially if a gallstone is suspected to be blocking the pancreatic or bile duct.

Treatment

Acute pancreatitis usually needs hospital care, including fluids, pain control, and treating the underlying cause. Chronic pancreatitis needs longer-term management, which may include addressing alcohol use, dietary changes, and pain management.

Frequently asked questions

Gallstones and heavy alcohol use together account for most cases.

Acute pancreatitis with severe pain needs prompt medical attention and often hospital care.

Addressing known risk factors — such as treating gallstones and avoiding heavy alcohol use — reduces the risk significantly.