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Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas, which has both acute and chronic forms.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. Acute pancreatitis has a sudden onset and usually resolves completely, whereas chronic pancreatitis is a progressive disease that causes irreversible damage to the gland over years.

The most common causes of acute pancreatitis are gallstones and alcohol use, which together account for about 80% of all cases. Long-term heavy alcohol consumption is also the main cause of chronic pancreatitis.

Mild acute pancreatitis tends to resolve in 3–5 days, but severe disease can develop dangerous complications such as necrosis, abscess and organ failure. Over time, chronic pancreatitis may lead to exocrine insufficiency (malabsorption) and endocrine insufficiency (diabetes).

Symptoms

Severe pain in the epigastrium or left upper quadrant radiating to the back
Nausea and vomiting
Fever and tachycardia
Abdominal tenderness and distension
Jaundice when the bile ducts are obstructed
Fatty stools (steatorrhoea) and weight loss in chronic pancreatitis
Development of diabetes in the chronic form

Risk Factors

Gallbladder stones
Chronic alcohol use
High triglyceride levels
High calcium (hyperparathyroidism)
Certain medications (azathioprine, oestrogens, thiazides)
Genetic mutations (PRSS1, CFTR)
Autoimmune pancreatitis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Severe persistent abdominal pain (urgent assessment)
  • Fever, jaundice and vomiting occurring together
  • Ongoing weight loss and fatty stools
  • A change in the character of pain in a known pancreatitis patient
  • Recurrent abdominal pain in someone who uses alcohol

Treatment Methods

01
Acute: hospital admission, fasting or enteral nutrition, intravenous fluid replacement
02
Pain control (opioid analgesics)
03
ERCP or cholecystectomy for gallstone-related pancreatitis
04
Antibiotics and, if necessary, debridement in necrotising pancreatitis
05
Chronic: pancreatic enzyme replacement and treatment of diabetes
06
Stopping alcohol and smoking (slows progression in the chronic form)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.