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Pancreatitis (Cont.)

Causes of Pancreatitis

There are many possible causes of pancreatitis. By far, the two most common pancreatitis causes are gallstones and alcoholism.
 

Symptoms of Pancreatitis

Symptoms of pancreatitis vary somewhat, depending on whether a person is experiencing acute or chronic symptoms.
 
Pancreatitis symptoms may include:
 
  • Upper abdominal pain that may reach to the back or other areas
  • Swollen and tender abdomen
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Rapid pulse.
     
More severe symptoms of pancreatitis may include:
 
  • Dehydration
  • Low blood pressure
  • Weight loss
  • Fatty stools
  • Diabetes
  • Heart, lung, or kidney failure
  • Loss of life.
     

Diagnosing Pancreatitis

Besides asking about a person's medical history and doing a physical exam, a doctor may order blood or urine tests and possibly imaging tests to diagnose pancreatitis.
 
(Click Pancreatitis Diagnosis for more information on diagnosing pancreatitis.)
 

Treating Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis treatment options depend on a number of factors. These factors include:
 
Depending on the factors above, treatment for pancreatitis may include:
 
  • Medications
  • Surgery
  • Diet and lifestyle changes.
     
(Pancreatitis Continued: Page 3)

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD