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Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, the organ that makes digestive enzymes and insulin. It can be sudden and severe (acute) or long-standing (chronic).
Causes & risk factors
- Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct
- Heavy alcohol use
- High blood triglycerides
- Certain medicines
- High calcium, or after some abdominal procedures
- Sometimes no cause is found
Common symptoms
- Severe upper tummy pain spreading to the back
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- A tender, swollen tummy
- Weight loss (chronic form)
- Greasy, foul-smelling stools (chronic form)
Tests & diagnosis
- Blood amylase and lipase (pancreatic enzymes)
- CBC
- LFT
- Calcium and triglycerides
- Ultrasound or CT of the abdomen
Treatment & management
- Acute pancreatitis is treated in hospital with fluids, pain relief and rest for the gut
- Treat the cause — remove gallstones or stop alcohol
- Nutrition support as recovery allows
- Chronic form: pancreatic enzyme supplements and pain management
- Manage diabetes if the pancreas is damaged
When to see a doctor urgently
- Sudden severe upper tummy pain with vomiting — seek emergency care
- Fever with a rigid, very tender abdomen
- Fast breathing, confusion or feeling faint
- Yellow eyes or skin
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about pancreatitis. It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is pancreatitis life-threatening?
Mild attacks usually settle in days, but severe pancreatitis can be dangerous and needs hospital care. Sudden severe upper tummy pain should be assessed urgently.
Can I drink alcohol after pancreatitis?
No, avoiding alcohol completely is strongly advised, especially if alcohol was the cause, as further attacks can permanently damage the pancreas.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.