Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. As this eMedTV article explains, it comes in two forms: acute and chronic. This part of the Web site provides detailed information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition.
Acute pancreatitis occurs suddenly, lasts for a short period of time, and usually gets better. This eMedTV article provides an in-depth look at acute pancreatitis by discussing the causes, symptoms, and treatment of this condition.
Chronic pancreatitis is a disorder involving digestive enzymes that attack and destroy the pancreas. As this eMedTV article explains, this can lead to pain and scarring. This page describes the causes, symptoms, and treatment of this condition.
Gallstones and alcoholism are the two most common causes of pancreatitis. This section of the eMedTV library discusses these and other causes, such as trauma to the pancreas, hereditary conditions, and viral infections.
Upper abdominal pain is a common early symptom of pancreatitis. This eMedTV segment explains how symptoms of this condition vary depending on which type of pancreatitis (acute or chronic) a person has.
To diagnose pancreatitis, the doctor will perform a physical exam and order certain tests. This eMedTV Web page describes how blood, imaging, and urine tests are used to make a pancreatitis diagnosis.
Medication, surgery, and diet and lifestyle changes are all aspects of pancreatitis treatment. This eMedTV segment describes each of these options in detail and explains that without certain complications, acute pancreatitis usually goes away on its own.
Pancreatic enzymes are usually taken by those with cystic fibrosis or chronic pancreatitis. This eMedTV segment talks about how these enzymes aid in the digestion of meals and also discusses the ingredients contained in the enzymes.
