Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas, which is an organ
in the upper abdomen that makes insulin and digestive enzymes. Pancreatitis may
cause sudden, severe abdominal pain.
Pancreatitis is most commonly caused by excessive use of alcohol or
by a blockage of the tube (duct) that leads from the pancreas to the beginning
of the small intestine (duodenum), usually by a gallstone. Other causes include
an infection, an injury, or certain medicines. It may develop suddenly (acute),
or it may be a long-term, recurring (chronic) problem.
Treatment in the hospital includes pain medicine and fluids given
through a vein (IV) until the inflammation goes away. Nutrition is given
through a tube to avoid stimulating the pancreas. Although most people recover
fully from pancreatitis, complications such as bleeding, infection, or organ
failure may develop.
