Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, a gland behind the stomach that makes digestive juices and insulin. It can be acute (a sudden attack) or chronic (long-term damage).
Symptoms of pancreatitis
- Severe pain in the upper abdomen that often spreads to the back
- Pain that is worse after eating and eases slightly when bending forward
- Nausea and repeated vomiting; fever and fast heartbeat
- In chronic pancreatitis: weight loss, oily or foul-smelling stools, and diabetes
Common causes
- Gallbladder stones — the most common cause of acute pancreatitis
- Alcohol
- Very high triglycerides, high calcium, some medicines
- Tropical (idiopathic) chronic pancreatitis, seen in India even in non-drinkers
Treatment
Most acute attacks are treated in hospital with fluids, pain relief and nutrition, and settle within days. Severe pancreatitis needs ICU care. If gallstones caused the attack, the gallbladder is usually removed to prevent another one — read when gallbladder surgery is needed.
When is surgery needed?
- Infected or dead pancreatic tissue (necrosis) that does not settle
- Large fluid collections or pseudocysts causing symptoms
- Chronic pancreatitis with severe pain, stones in the pancreatic duct or blockage
- Suspicion of a tumour
Modern care uses endoscopic and minimally invasive approaches first wherever possible, with surgery planned when it offers the best result.
Diet and lifestyle
- No alcohol and no smoking
- Low-fat, small, frequent meals
- Control blood sugar and triglycerides
पैनक्रियाटाइटिस यानी अग्न्याशय (पैंक्रियास) में सूजन। इसमें पेट के ऊपरी हिस्से में तेज़ दर्द होता है जो पीठ तक जाता है, साथ में उल्टी और बुखार हो सकता है।
सबसे आम कारण पित्त की पथरी और शराब हैं। ज़्यादातर मरीज़ अस्पताल में इलाज से ठीक हो जाते हैं; पथरी कारण हो तो गॉलब्लैडर निकालना ज़रूरी होता है। शराब और धूम्रपान बंद करें, कम चिकनाई वाला खाना थोड़ा-थोड़ा खाएँ।
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main cause of pancreatitis?
Gallbladder stones and alcohol are the two most common causes of acute pancreatitis.
Can pancreatitis be cured?
Most acute attacks settle completely with hospital treatment. Removing the cause — such as the gallbladder if stones caused it — prevents further attacks. Chronic pancreatitis is managed long term.
When does pancreatitis need surgery?
Surgery or a procedure is needed for infected necrosis, symptomatic pseudocysts, blocked ducts or severe pain in chronic pancreatitis, or when a tumour is suspected.
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Please consult a qualified doctor about your own condition.
