What is Pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is the result of inflammation that occurs in the pancreas. This organ sits behind the stomach and next to the small intestine, and is responsible for releasing digestive enzymes into the small intestine as well as insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream. Damage to the pancreas can occur when the digestive enzymes are activated before being released, thus attacking the cells of the pancreas. Pancreatitis takes two forms; acute pancreatitis and chronic. Acute pancreatitis appears suddenly and usually lasts for a short time. Most people with acute pancreatitis recover completely after getting the right treatment, but severe cases can cause life-threatening complications. Chronic pancreatitis is a long-lasting inflammation that occurs over many years.
Many cases are caused by gallstones or alcohol abuse. Certain medications, family history, high triglycerides, injury to the abdomen and infection are among other factors attributed to causing pancreatitis. Complications of pancreatitis can include kidney failure, diabetes, malnutrition, infection and tissue damage.
Common pancreatitis symptoms include:
- Upper abdominal pain that can radiate to the back. This may be aggravated by eating, especially with high fat foods
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart rate
- Tenderness to the touch in the abdominal area
- Diarrhea and weight loss caused by malabsorption of food from chronic pancreatitis
Symptoms should not be ignored and should be evaluated by a physician. Seek immediate care if you develop severe abdominal pain.
Schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist today
At Physicians Regional Healthcare System, board-certified gastroenterologists are available to diagnose and treat symptoms of pancreatitis. To find a gastroenterologist near you, contact one of our two locations in the Naples area. You can also find a provider online.
Call (239) 354-6000 | Collier Blvd
Call (239) 348-4000 | Pine Ridge