Pancreatitis simply is inflammation or itis (from Latin) of the pancreas. The pancreas as various enzymes that are secreted into the duodenum for digesting our food. The stimulant for the secretion of those enzymes is the presence of food. When you have inflammation of the pancreas, it causes pain in the abdomen usual around your belly button area, associated with nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, being flushed, lack of appetite, and in significant cases that are more chronic, weight loss. In about one third of people with pancreatitis, alcohol is the cause. In another third of people, the cause is gallstones that block ducts from pancreas that release digestive enzymes, thereby causing the inflammation. In another 20% of people, medications are the offending factor such as thiazide diuretics. Finally in 10% of people, it is what we call idiopathic which means, no cause can be isolated or determined.
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. It may be caused by a number of factors, including gallstones, alcohol, certain medications, a serious viral or bacterial infection, trauma to the abdomen, high triglyceride levels, or high blood calcium levels.
There are two types of pancreatitis:
Acute pancreatitis is a short-term, sudden inflammation which usually resolves with intensive treatment. It can be a severe, life-threatening condition. There are about 80,000 cases each year in the US, of which 20% are severe. Acute pancreatitis occurs more frequently in men than women, and may be caused by gallstones.
Chronic pancreatitis is a disease process that occurs over a longer period of time, and which does not resolve itself without treatment. It can slowly destroy the pancreas, causing, in severe cases bleeding, infection and tissue damage, as well as pseudocysts ñ fluid accumulation and tissue debris. In acute pancreatitis, enzymes and toxins can flood the bloodstream, causing injury to major organs including lungs, kidneys, and heart. Chronic pancreatitis may occur if acute pancreatitis is not resolved.
Continue Learning about Pancreatitis
Pancreatitis
A disease of the endocrine system, pancreatitis can cause severe abdominal pain, fever and nausea and vomiting.Pancreatitis develops when the digestive juices that your pancreas makes actually begins to break down the organ itself...
Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.