Introduction
Pancreatitis is a serious medical condition that can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. It is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis so that you can seek medical attention if needed. In this article, we will discuss the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis according to physicians, as well as what foods to avoid and what foods to eat if you have pancreatitis. By understanding the signs and symptoms of pancreatitis, you can take the necessary steps to ensure your health and well-being.
Signs You Have Pancreatitis, According to Physicians
Pancreatitis is a serious condition that can cause severe abdominal pain and other symptoms. It occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including alcohol abuse, gallstones, and certain medications. If you think you may have pancreatitis, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Here are some signs to look out for, according to physicians.
1. Abdominal Pain
One of the most common signs of pancreatitis is abdominal pain. This pain can range from mild to severe and can be located in the upper abdomen or the middle of the abdomen. It may also radiate to the back or the sides. The pain may be worse after eating or drinking.
2. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are also common symptoms of pancreatitis. These symptoms can be accompanied by abdominal pain and can be severe enough to cause dehydration.
3. Fever
A fever is another sign of pancreatitis. This can be accompanied by chills and sweating. It’s important to seek medical attention if you have a fever, as it can be a sign of a more serious condition.
4. Jaundice
Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes that can be a sign of pancreatitis. This is caused by a buildup of bilirubin in the body, which is a byproduct of red blood cells. If you notice that your skin or eyes are yellowing, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
5. Weight Loss
Unexplained weight loss can also be a sign of pancreatitis. This is because the pancreas is responsible for producing enzymes that help the body break down and absorb food. If the pancreas is inflamed, it can lead to weight loss.
Conclusion
If you think you may have pancreatitis, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. The symptoms of pancreatitis can range from mild to severe, and they can be caused by a variety of factors. If you experience any of the signs mentioned above, it’s important to seek medical attention right away.
The pancreas is a crucial organ that doesn’t get much attention until something goes wrong. A gland located behind the stomach, it’s responsible for releasing enzymes needed for digesting food and producing insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. When a condition known as pancreatitis develops, it can cause serious health problems and may even be fatal. These are the signs of pancreatitis, according to physicians. Read on to find out more—and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure Signs You’ve Already Had COVID.
“Pancreatitis is a serious health condition in which the pancreas of an affected individual becomes inflamed,” says Mark Davis, MD, a physician with Pacific Analytics. “In this disease, the digestive enzymes start attacking the pancreas, and over time, the pancreas gets completely damaged. The inflamed pancreas can further result in inflammatory cells and toxins, increasing the risk of lungs, heart and kidney damage.”
Left untreated, severe pancreatitis can be a life-threatening condition.
According to the Mayo Clinic, pancreatitis may be caused by
- Gallstones
- Alcoholism
- Medications
- Pancreatic cancer
- High levels of triglycerides (a type of fat) or calcium in the blood
- Infections
- Abdominal injury
- Obesity
- Trauma
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Most people with acute pancreatitis have persistent, severe pain in their upper abdomen right below the ribs, says Alex Spinoso, MD, of Genesis Lifestyle Medicine in Las Vegas, Nevada.
In pancreatitis caused by gallstones, the pain is often very localized and comes on quickly, reaching maximum intensity in 10 to 20 minutes. With pancreatitis caused by alcohol or certain health conditions, the pain may be less abrupt and more general.
“In approximately 50 percent of patients, the pain radiates to the back,” says Spinoso. “The pain persists for several hours to days and may be partially relieved by sitting up or bending forward. Approximately 90% of patients have associated nausea and vomiting which may persist for several hours.”
According to Davis, other symptoms of pancreatitis include:
- Swollen and tender abdomen
- Irregular pulse
- Fever
- Smelly stool
- Aggravated abdominal pain after eating a meal
A small percentage (about 5 to 10 percent) of people who have acute severe pancreatitis may experience no pain with the condition.
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Pancreatitis can be a serious, even fatal, condition. “Chronic pancreatitis can cause long-term complications, including diabetes, weight loss, bile duct blockages, chronic pain and even pancreatic cancer,” says Davis. “Therefore, it is very important to identify the early symptoms of pancreatitis and begin treatment as soon as possible.”
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“Anyone who experiences frequent and severe abdominal pain should see a doctor immediately,” says Davis. Pancreatitis may need to be treated in the hospital with pain medication and IV fluids. You may need to undergo procedures to remove bile duct obstructions, gallstones, or part of the pancreas itself. Long-term, your doctor may recommend changing your diet, avoiding alcohol, taking supplments to improve your digestion, or changing medications that are causing pancreatitis. And to ensure your health don’t miss these 101 Health Habits You Didn’t Know Were Deadly.