Acute Vs. Chronic Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is inflammation or infection of the pancreas, a large gland behind the stomach. The pancreas releases hormones that help regulate the body's production of sugar. Pancreatitis can be acute or chronic.

Acute vs. Chronic

Acute pancreatitis appears suddenly and usually resolves within a few days. Chronic pancreatitis occurs over many years and doesn't heal or improve.

Symptoms

Both types of pancreatitis may cause upper abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Other symptoms of acute pancreatitis include tender, swollen abdomen, fever and rapid pulse. Other symptoms of chronic pancreatitis include weight loss, diarrhea and oily stools.

Causes

Acute pancreatitis can be caused by gallstones, heavy alcohol use, medications, infections, tumors or abdominal trauma. Chronic pancreatitis is usually caused by years of heavy alcohol use, but it can also be caused by hereditary disorders, autoimmune conditions or unknown causes.

Treatment

Treatment of both types of pancreatitis usually requires a hospital stay with IV fluids, medication and antibiotics. Acute pancreatitis usually resolves in a few days, but chronic pancreatitis may not improve for several weeks.

Complications

According to the Mayo Clinic, both types of pancreatitis can lead to complications such as malnutrition. Acute pancreatitis can lead to diabetes, breathing problems, kidney failure and infection. Chronic pancreatitis can lead to pancreatic cancer.

References

• National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Pancreatitis
• Mayo Clinic: Pancreatitis

Resources

• Medline Plus: Pancreatitis