Acute pancreatitis is an abrupt and severe ailment brought about by rapid inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreatic enzymes and other poisons can enter the bloodstream during an acute attack and damage other organs such as the lungs, heart and kidneys. Nevertheless, the pancreas can return to its normal state if the exact cause is determined and treated.
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It is sad to note that in some cases, most of the pancreatic tissue is impaired with significant inflammation along with leakage of enzymes, poisons and fluids. This is called “hemorrhagic” pancreatitis which causes the organ to become swollen and slushy that can lead to the accumulation of fluid and damaged tissue called as pseudocyst. Once it becomes infected, it is called as a pancreatic abscess.
What are the usual causes of acute pancreatitis?
The usual causes of acute pancreatitis include:
- Gallstones
- Excessive consumption of alcohol
Indications
The common indications of acute pancreatitis might include the following:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abrupt severe upper abdominal pain (epigastric pain)
- Diarrhea
- Intense pain that can be felt in the back
- Fever and chills
- Racing heartbeat
The indications are often severe enough to necessitate immediate medical care and even admission to a healthcare facility so that pain medications and intravenous fluids can be started.
Management
The inflammation characteristic of acute pancreatitis involves the entire organ, thus those with diabetes can result due to damage to the areas that normally produce insulin or the islets of Langerhans. A multidisciplinary approach in an intensive care unit along with artificial ventilation and other types of support are required.
If gallstones are responsible for a severe episode of acute pancreatitis, the treatment might include attempts to remove the stone.
It is sad to note that there is no specific treatment and it is usually supportive such as:
- Pain medications for pain relief
- Replacement of fluids and nutrition
- Bowel rest to minimize the production of enzymes by the pancreas thus reducing the swelling
Antibiotics might be prescribed if infection is present in the pancreas or other organs.