Did you know that acute pancreatitis is one of the most common gastrointestinal reasons for hospital admission in the United States, leading to over 275,000 hospital stays each year? This inflammation of the pancreas can range from a mild, uncomfortable condition to a life-threatening illness, making it crucial to recognize the warning signs early.
At Newtown Gastroenterology, our specialists provide advanced, compassionate care for everything from chronic digestive issues to routine screenings. With multiple locations across New York, we are dedicated to helping you manage your digestive health with expertise and personalized treatment plans. If you are experiencing concerning symptoms, get started with expert GI care today by scheduling an appointment with our team.
Let's explore what pancreatitis is and the key symptoms you should never ignore.
What Is Pancreatitis?
The pancreas is a small gland located behind your stomach that plays a huge role in your health. It produces enzymes essential for digestion and hormones like insulin that regulate your blood sugar. Pancreatitis occurs when this vital organ becomes inflamed. The digestive enzymes it produces activate while still inside the pancreas, irritating its cells and causing inflammation and damage.
There are two main forms of pancreatitis:
Acute Pancreatitis: This is a sudden inflammation that lasts for a short time. It can range from mild discomfort to a severe, life-threatening illness. Most people with acute pancreatitis recover fully after receiving the right treatment.
Chronic Pancreatitis: This is long-lasting inflammation that can lead to permanent damage. It often develops after an episode of acute pancreatitis and can cause serious complications, including digestive problems and diabetes.
How Pancreatitis Affects Your Body
When the pancreas is inflamed, it can't function correctly. The premature activation of digestive enzymes means your body struggles to break down food and absorb nutrients, which can lead to malnutrition and weight loss. The inflammation can also spill over, affecting other organs and causing systemic issues.
Over time, chronic pancreatitis can destroy pancreatic tissue, leading to scarring (fibrosis). This can result in a loss of enzyme and hormone production, potentially causing digestive trouble and diabetes. Understanding the signs of pancreatitis is the first step toward preventing these serious outcomes.
5 Symptoms of Pancreatitis You Shouldn’t Ignore
Paying attention to your body is crucial, as some symptoms may indicate pancreatitis and require medical care. Here are five key symptoms to watch for:
Severe Abdominal Pain – Persistent pain in the upper abdomen that may radiate to your back, often worsening after eating fatty meals.
Nausea and Vomiting – Ongoing nausea and vomiting caused by disrupted digestion, increasing the risk of dehydration.
Fever and Rapid Heart Rate – Low-grade fever, chills, and a fast pulse, signaling inflammation and stress in the body.
Unexplained Weight Loss – Malabsorption due to insufficient digestive enzymes, leading to weight loss and oily stools.
Jaundice – Yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by bile duct blockage, often accompanied by dark urine and pale stools.
If you notice these symptoms, consult a doctor promptly.
When to Seek Care from a New York GI Specialist
If you’re experiencing symptoms of pancreatitis, like severe abdominal pain, seek medical care promptly. At Newtown Gastroenterology, our board-certified specialists have over 60 years of experience and use advanced technology to provide personalized, expert care. With multiple locations in New York, help is always close by.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Recognizing the symptoms of pancreatitis is crucial for getting the timely treatment you need to protect your digestive health. Newtown Gastroenterology is here to provide the expert diagnosis and compassionate care you deserve.
Don't wait for your symptoms to worsen. Schedule an appointment at one of our New York locations to discuss your concerns with a leading GI specialist at Newtown Gastroenterology.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes pancreatitis?
The most common causes are gallstones and heavy alcohol use. Other factors include high triglycerides, medications, genetic conditions, and autoimmune diseases. Sometimes, the cause is unknown.
How is pancreatitis diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose pancreatitis through symptoms, physical exams, and tests like blood work (amylase/lipase levels), CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds.
Can pancreatitis be cured?
Acute pancreatitis is treatable, often requiring IV fluids, pain relief, and rest. Chronic pancreatitis isn’t curable but can be managed with medical care, lifestyle changes, and sometimes surgery.
Is pancreatitis preventable?
Some cases can be prevented by limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing risk factors like gallstones. If you’re at risk, speak with your doctor.
How is pancreatitis treated?
Acute pancreatitis needs hospitalization for fluids, pain management, and rest. Chronic cases focus on pain relief, enzyme supplements, and managing complications like diabetes.
