by admin-blog-kh | September 11, 2026 1:59 pm
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, an organ behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and hormones that regulate blood sugar. It occurs when digestive enzymes become activated inside the pancreas instead of the small intestine, causing the pancreas to become inflamed. Pancreatitis can occur suddenly (acute) or develop gradually over time (chronic).
The main symptom is severe, constant upper abdominal pain that often spreads to the back. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, fever and loss of appetite. Chronic pancreatitis may also cause weight loss, digestive problems and, over time, diabetes due to damage to the pancreas. If you develop severe upper abdominal pain, particularly if it is accompanied by fever, jaundice, persistent vomiting or a rapid heartbeat, seek immediate medical attention.
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, a small organ located behind the stomach. The pancreas produces digestive enzymes that help break down food and hormones such as insulin and glucagon, which help regulate blood sugar levels.
Normally, digestive enzymes become active only after reaching the small intestine. In pancreatitis, these enzymes become activated inside the pancreas itself, causing the gland to digest its own tissue. This results in inflammation, swelling and pain. People with pancreatitis often experience severe upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back.
Pancreatitis may be acute, developing suddenly over a short period, or chronic, where inflammation persists for months or years and gradually causes permanent damage to the pancreas.
Acute pancreatitis develops suddenly and is commonly triggered by gallstones[1], heavy alcohol consumption, pancreatic cancer, abdominal injury, surgery, very high triglyceride levels, certain medications or infections.
The most common symptom is severe, constant pain in the upper abdomen. The pain often develops suddenly, may spread to the back or chest, and usually becomes worse after eating.
Other symptoms include:
In severe cases, patients may also experience difficulty breathing.
Many people recover completely with prompt medical treatment. However, severe acute pancreatitis can lead to serious complications and may require intensive care and prolonged hospitalisation.
Chronic pancreatitis is a progressive condition that gradually damages pancreatic tissue. It is more common in men and typically develops between the ages of 30 and 40, although it can occur at any age.
Possible causes include:
Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis include:
As chronic pancreatitis progresses, some patients develop diabetes because the pancreas can no longer produce enough insulin. This may cause increased thirst and frequent urination.
Over time, chronic pancreatitis can permanently damage the pancreas, reducing its ability to produce digestive enzymes and insulin.
If pancreatitis is suspected, your gastroenterologist will assess your symptoms and medical history before performing a physical examination. Blood tests are usually done to measure pancreatic enzymes such as amylase and lipase. Imaging tests, including ultrasound, CT scan or MRI, may also be recommended to confirm the diagnosis, identify the underlying cause and assess the severity of inflammation.
Mild abdominal discomfort can occur for many reasons and often settles on its own. However, the pain caused by pancreatitis is usually severe, persistent and located in the upper abdomen. It often radiates to the back and may become worse after eating.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
Early diagnosis and treatment by a gastroenterologist is important to prevent complications and improve recovery. If you experience any of these symptoms, do not delay seeking medical care.
If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of pancreatitis, timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial. The expert team at Kauvery Hospital, with branches in Chennai, Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli, and Trichy, offers advanced care and comprehensive support to help you recover and maintain your health[5].
The most common symptom is severe, constant pain in the upper abdomen that may spread to the back. Nausea, vomiting, fever, rapid heartbeat and loss of appetite can also occur.
Acute pancreatitis can be triggered by gallstones, heavy alcohol consumption, pancreatic cancer, abdominal injury, surgery, very high triglyceride levels, certain medications or infections.
Acute pancreatitis develops suddenly and may resolve with appropriate treatment, while chronic pancreatitis persists over time and can cause permanent damage to the pancreas.
Yes. Chronic pancreatitis may cause indigestion, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, unexplained weight loss and pale, oily, foul-smelling stools. It can also eventually affect insulin production and lead to diabetes.
A gastroenterologist may assess your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination. Blood tests for pancreatic enzymes such as amylase and lipase, along with ultrasound, CT or MRI, may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess its severity.
Seek immediate medical attention for severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, particularly when it spreads to the back or occurs with persistent vomiting, fever, jaundice, rapid heartbeat or difficulty breathing.
Many people with acute pancreatitis recover completely with prompt medical treatment. Chronic pancreatitis is progressive and can cause permanent pancreatic damage, so ongoing medical care may be needed.
Do not delay medical evaluation, especially if the pain is severe and persistent or accompanied by vomiting, fever, jaundice or breathing difficulty. A gastroenterologist can assess the symptoms and determine the appropriate treatment.[6]
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet, Radial Road & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and paediatric trauma care.
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