Acute Pancreatitis

Key Points

Overview

Acute pancreatitis is a serious condition where your pancreas suddenly becomes swollen and painful. This inflammation requires immediate medical attention and hospital treatment. It is distinct from chronic pancreatitis, which is a long-term condition with permanent damage. The most common causes include gallstones blocking the pancreatic opening and heavy alcohol consumption. Less common causes can involve injuries to the pancreas, certain medications, or other health conditions like lupus or mumps. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests and sometimes a CT scan. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing the underlying cause, usually in a hospital setting. Most individuals begin to recover within a week.

Signs and Symptoms

• Sudden, severe tummy pain that doesn't go away
• Pain affecting the upper tummy, sides, or whole tummy
• Pain spreading to your back
• Pain worsening after eating, moving, or lying down
• Pain improving when leaning forward or in fetal position
• High temperature, feeling hot or cold
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bloating that doesn't go away
• Fast heartbeat or difficulty breathing
• Blue or bruised skin around the belly button or waist

Things That Increase the Risk

• Gallstones
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Injury to the pancreas (e.g., during surgery)
• Certain medications (steroids, heart, epilepsy drugs)
• Conditions like lupus, mumps, or pancreatic cancer
• High levels of calcium in your blood (hypercalcaemia)

Diagnosis

• Blood tests to check enzyme levels
• CT scan for detailed imaging
• Review of symptoms and medical history

Treatment & Management

• Fluids and nutrients given intravenously
• Painkillers to manage severe pain
• Antibiotics for any infections
• Treatment for underlying causes, such as gallstone surgery
• Support to stop drinking alcohol
• Close monitoring for complications in hospital

Prevention

• Reduce or stop alcohol intake
• Quit smoking
• Eat a healthy, low-fat diet
• Manage gallstones if present

Related Diseases

• Chronic Pancreatitis
• Gallstones
• Sepsis
• Stomach Ulcer
• Appendicitis
• Pancreatic Cysts
• Pancreatic Necrosis
• Pancreatic Cancer

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Acute Pancreatitis:

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Acute Pancreatitis: