Acute Pancreatitis

The pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach and close to the duodenum. It secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine through a tube called the pancreatic duct. These digestive enzymes help digest proteins, fats and carbohydrates in food. Another function of the pancreas is to release hormones called insulin and glycogen into the bloodstream, which help the body use the glucose it takes from food for energy. In the normal digestive process, digestive enzymes do not become active until they reach the small intestine, where they begin digesting food. Pancreatitis is a condition when the enzymes become active in the pancreas, digesting the gland itself and causing inflammation. There are two different types of pancreatitis; acute and chronic.

Acute pancreatitis is when the symptoms come on suddenly and lasts for a short amount of time. Even though some people have more than one attack and recover completely after each, acute pancreatitis can be severe and even life threatening with many complications. Even though there were no exclusive causes for the condition, it is known that a couple of causes, such as too much alcohol and gallstones can be the cause of acute pancreatitis. If gallstones and alcohol use are ruled out, other causes can be found and a treatment can begin.  Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include:

• Upper abdominal pain that may last for a few days
• Rapid pulse
• A tender and swollen abdomen
• Nausea
• Fever
• Vomiting
• Low Blood Pressure (in severe cases)
• Dehydration (in severe cases)

Diagnostic tests for acute pancreatitis include an assessment of your medical history, a physical exam and blood tests. Your doctor will also look for changes in blood bicarbonate, potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium and glucose. A CAT (computerized axial tomography) scan to look for inflammation and damage to the pancreas as well as an abdominal ultrasound to look for gallstones may also be ordered. Treatment depends on the severity of the attacks themselves and is designed to prevent complications and support vital bodily functions. Pancreatitis treatment includes hospitalization and surgery to remove any pancreatic pseudo cysts if they are involved.  In severe cases, may also require a process called total parenteral nutrition. Total parenteral nutrition is when a person is fed through an IV that bypasses the digestive tract. In the case of acute pancreatitis, TPN is often required for a length of 3 to 6 weeks while the pancreas slowly heals. The patient is also advised not to drink alcohol and not to eat large meals before he or she leaves the hospital. Preventative measures are also planned to avoid future attacks once the cause is found and after all signs of acute pancreatitis are gone. Other tests may be necessary if no cause has been found. Pancreatitis that is caused by gallstones require surgery to remove the gallstones. Acute pancreatitis can be a serious issue, and should be taken care of immediately