Causes

1. Medications can irritate pancreas.
2. High triglyceride level.
3. Infection.
4. Abdomen injury.
5. Metabolic disorders and genetic disorders.

Symptoms

1. Moderate to severe abdominal pain which may spread to back.
2. Pain worsen when eating.
3. Swollen tender abdomen.
4. Nausea, vomiting and fever.
5. Unexplained weight loss.

How to diagnose pancreatitis?

Measure levels of Amylase and Lipase which are two digestive enzyme. High levels of enzymes indicate acute pancreatitis.

1. An USG (Ultrasound Sonography Test) and CT Scan provide image of pancreas, gall bladder and bile duct.
2. Stool Test – To see if your body is having difficulty in breaking down fat.
3. Endoscopic USG – To take clear picture of pancreas and connecting tubes.
4. ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography ) – It allows to see inside pancreas and bile duct.
Anything blocking pancreas or bile duct may be removed.

Treatment

1. Hospitalization, supportive care and monitoring.
2. Pain medication to provide comfort.
3. Endoscopic procedure or surgery to remove gall stone or damaged part of pancreas.
4. Supplemental pancreatic enzymes and insulin if pancreas not working properly.

Precautions

1. Maintain healthy weight.
2. Get regular exercise.
3. Stop smoking.
4. Avoid alcohol.
5. Eat low fat diet.
6. Stop drinking alcoholic beverages.
7. Follow doctor and nutritional dietary recommendations.