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Pancreatitis
Medical Questions » Pancreatitis
| Name: Pancreatitis |
| Also known as: |
| A well recognized but uncommon complication of alcoholism causing inflammation or infection of the pancreas gland, which sits in the center of the abdomen directly behind the navel. Its main task is to produce the digestive enzymes that attack your food. A tiny duct leads from the pancreas to the bile duct and then to the small intestine to transport these enzymes to the food. |
Causes of Pancreatitis
The pancreas may become infected, damaged by excess alcohol intake, injured in an accident, or the duct leading from it may be blocked by a gallstone. The digestive enzymes leak out of the pancreas ducts and start dissolving the gland itself, the intestines and other abdominal organs. |
Symptoms of Pancreatitis
Excruciating pain in the center of the abdomen that may also be felt in the back and sides, nausea, vomiting, weakness, fever and sweats. |
Tests for Pancreatitis
Diagnosis confirmed by specific blood tests. |
Treatment for Pancreatitis
Difficult, and often involves long hospital stays for resuscitation, prolonged bed rest and pain relief. The cause of the pancreatitis must also be treated, with antibiotics and occasionally surgery.
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Complications of Pancreatitis of its treatment
Recurrences of attacks, particularly in alcoholics, are common. |
Likely Outcome of Pancreatitis
Significant death rate, which rises with subsequent attacks. |
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