Acute pancreatitis means the inflammation in the pancreas which leads to severe pain in the pancreas over a short period of time. The main symptom and sign of acute pancreatitis is extreme pain in the abdomen. The pancreas is a small organ and putting too much pressure due to the consumption of alcohol and also affects digestion.
The symptoms of acute pancreatitis may vary from time to time. The onset of the pain begins from the centre of the upper abdomen and may become severe if it spread into the back. Below are some common signs and symptoms of acute pancreatitis.
- Fluctuations in pulse rate
- Pain in the upper abdominal area
- Soreness and tenderness around the abdomen
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
The most known cause of acute pancreatitis is gallbladder stones. Though the actual impact of how gallbladder stones affect pancreases is not entirely known, but there is a sure link between the two of them. Other possible causes of acute pancreatitis:-
- Overconsumption of alcohol
- Injury to the pancreas
- Genetic mutations
- Autoimmune conditions
- High calcium levels in the blood
- Certain medicines
Before conducting or recommending any tests and procedures the doctor will first examine the patient using stethoscope to detect any swelling and inflammation. Below are some of the tests done to diagnose acute pancreatitis.
- Blood tests
- Ultrasound scan
- ERCP (Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography)
- CT scan
- Chest X-ray
Treatment of acute pancreatitis depends on the severity of the case. If not treated, acute pancreatitis can turn into a life-threatening situation.
- Antibiotics
- Feeding tubes
- Surgery
- Intravenous fluids
