Pancreatitis
Sources consulted
This article is original patient-education content.
- WHO—Health topics A–Z(2024)
- NHS—Health A to Z(2024)
- CDC—Health topics(2024)
Based on international clinical guidelines
Overview
Pancreatitis is inflammation (swelling) of the pancreas, a gland behind your stomach that helps digest food and control blood sugar. When it becomes inflamed, it can cause pain and affect how your body works.
Key facts
- Most cases are mild and get better with rest and hospital care.
- Severe pancreatitis can be serious but is treatable with prompt medical help.
- The most common causes are gallstones and heavy alcohol use.
It is not extremely common, but thousands of people in the UK are diagnosed each year. It affects both men and women.
Anyone can get pancreatitis, but it is more common in adults, especially those with gallstones, who drink a lot of alcohol, or who have high fat levels in the blood.
Symptoms
- Severe belly pain that does not go away
- High fever with chills
- Rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing
- Confusion or fainting
- ⚠Pain that keeps getting worse
- ⚠Vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down
- ⚠Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice)
Common symptoms
- Sudden, severe pain in the upper belly that may spread to your back
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever or chills
- Tender or swollen belly
Symptoms in children
- Pain in the upper belly that may come and go
- Nausea and vomiting
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Rapid breathing or fast heartbeat
Symptoms in older adults
- Less obvious belly pain, sometimes just discomfort
- Confusion or feeling very tired
- Low blood pressure or rapid heart rate
- Mild nausea without vomiting
Causes
Main causes
- Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct
- Heavy alcohol use over time
- High levels of triglycerides (a type of fat) in the blood
- Certain medications
- Injury or surgery to the belly
- Infections or autoimmune conditions (the body attacks itself)
Risk factors
- Having gallstones
- Drinking heavily or regularly
- Being overweight or having obesity
- Smoking
- Family history of pancreatitis
- Taking certain medicines (always check with your doctor)
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- You have sudden, severe pain in your upper belly that spreads to your back
- You have nausea, vomiting, and fever
- You have been told you have gallstones and develop new belly pain
Book a routine appointment if:
- You have mild, on-and-off belly pain, unexplained weight loss, or greasy, foul-smelling stools
- You have diabetes and are worried about your pancreas
- You want to reduce your risk factors
Diagnosis
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They will press on your belly to check for tenderness and order blood tests.
Tests that may be done
- Blood tests to measure levels of digestive enzymes (amylase and lipase)
- Imaging scans such as CT, ultrasound, or MRI to look at your pancreas and gallbladder
- Sometimes a special scope test (ERCP) to view the bile ducts and remove blockages
What to expect at your appointment
You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for a few hours before blood tests. Imaging tests are painless and non-invasive. If you have an ERCP, you'll be given medicine to relax you. The whole process is usually done in a hospital or clinic.
Treatment
Treatment depends on how severe your pancreatitis is. Most people need to stay in hospital for fluids, pain relief, and to let the pancreas rest. Mild cases may only need a few days, while severe cases may require intensive care.
Self-care at home
- Rest completely and avoid alcohol
- Do not eat solid foods until your doctor says it's safe – start with clear liquids like water or broth
- Take pain relievers as recommended by your doctor (over-the-counter options only after checking)
Medical treatments
In hospital, you will receive fluids through a vein (IV) to keep you hydrated. Doctors may give medicines to control pain and to help your pancreas settle down. In severe cases, you may need a temporary feeding tube to get nutrition. Always follow your doctor's advice – never take any medication without their guidance.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery may be needed if gallstones are causing the problem, or to drain fluid collections (pseudocysts) around the pancreas. In very severe cases, part of the damaged pancreas may need to be removed. Your healthcare team will discuss all options with you.
Living with this condition
Recovery takes time. After an attack, follow a low-fat diet, avoid alcohol completely, and drink plenty of water. Keep up with follow-up appointments to monitor your health.
Lifestyle tips
- Stop drinking alcohol – this is the most important step
- Quit smoking – it can worsen pancreatitis
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Manage any other health conditions like high triglycerides or diabetes
Diet and exercise
Eat small, low-fat meals throughout the day. Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Avoid fried and fatty foods. Gentle exercise like walking can help your overall health – but rest when you need to.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Living with pancreatitis can be stressful. You may feel anxious, frustrated, or down. It is normal. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor. If you feel overwhelmed, reach out for support – you are not alone.
Prevention
Not always, but you can lower your risk by avoiding heavy alcohol use, eating a healthy diet, and keeping your weight in check. If you have gallstones, treating them early may prevent pancreatitis.
Screening programmes
There is no routine screening for pancreatitis. But if you have risk factors like high triglycerides or a family history, your doctor may check your blood from time to time.
Complications
If left untreated
- Infection or abscess in the pancreas
- Fluid collections (pseudocysts) that can cause pain or block digestion
- Organ failure (kidneys, lungs, or heart)
- Chronic pancreatitis (long-term inflammation)
- Diabetes due to damage to insulin-making cells
- Malnutrition from poor digestion
Long-term outlook
The outlook is generally good with proper medical care. Most people recover fully from an acute attack. For chronic pancreatitis, lifestyle changes and medical support can help you manage symptoms and live a full life. With treatment, many people feel much better.
Find support
International organisations
Local organisations
- Pancreatitis Support UK ↗ · United Kingdom
- Guts UK ↗ · United Kingdom
Helplines
External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.
Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.