Acute Pancreatitis

What is it?

Acute pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas that occurs suddenly and usually resolves in a few days with treatment. The most common cause of acute pancreatitis is the presence of gallstones. Enzymes become active inside the pancreas, they start "digesting" the pancreas itself.

Symptom

Acute pancreatitis usually begins with gradual or sudden pain in the upper abdomen that sometimes extends through the back. Its feel worse after eating.
-a swollen and tender abdomen
-nausea and vomiting
-fever
-a rapid pulse

Diagnosis

Abdominal ultrasound

Computerized tomography (CT) scan

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)

Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP)

Treatment

Intravenous (IV) fluids, antibiotics, and medication to relieve pain

Surgery may be needed to drain the infected area, also called an abscess

Complication

Acute pancreatitis can cause breathing problems ( hypoxia )

Can't stop vomitting