Acute & Chronic Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas that can be life-threatening. It usually occurs as a single episode but can recur.

Symptoms

• Severe abdominal pain (often sudden onset)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Rapid pulse
• Swollen and tender abdomen
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)

Causes

• Gallstones: Blockage of the pancreatic duct.
• Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking can irritate the pancreas.
• Medications: Certain medications can cause pancreatitis.
• Infections: Viral infections (like mumps) can lead to inflammation.
• Trauma: Physical injury to the abdomen.
• Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like hyperlipidemia (high levels of fat in the blood).

Treatment

• Hospitalization: Most cases require hospital treatment.
• Fasting: Avoiding food and drink for a few days to allow the pancreas to rest.
• Fluids: Intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration.
• Pain Relief: Medications to manage pain.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be needed to remove gallstones or damaged tissue.

Chronic Pancreatitis

Chronic pancreatitis is a long-lasting inflammation of the pancreas that alters its normal structure and functions. This condition can lead to permanent damage.

Causes:

• Chronic Alcohol Abuse: The most common cause.
• Genetic Factors: Certain inherited disorders can increase risk.
• Autoimmune Conditions: The body's immune system attacks the pancreas.
• Obstruction of Pancreatic Ducts: Due to tumors or strictures.
• Metabolic Disorders: Conditions like cystic fibrosis.

Symptoms:

• Persistent abdominal pain
• Weight loss (due to malabsorption)
• Fatty stools (steatorrhea)
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diabetes (due to loss of insulin-producing cells)

Treatment:

• Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding alcohol, adopting a low-fat diet.
• Pain Management: Medications to manage chronic pain.
• Enzyme Supplements: Pancreatic enzyme replacements to aid digestion.
• Insulin Therapy: If diabetes develops, insulin may be needed.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pain or correct obstructions.