Endocrinology Health Guide

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis:
Men Vs. Women

Women are one-and-a-half times more likely than men to have acute pancreatitis caused by gallstones. On the other hand, men are six times more likely than women to have acute pancreatitis caused by alcoholism.

What is pancreatitis?
Pancreatitis is the inflammation of the pancreas. The inflammation may be sudden (acute) or ongoing (chronic). Acute pancreatitis usually involves a single "attack," after which the pancreas returns to normal. Severe acute pancreatitis can be life threatening. With chronic pancreatitis, permanent damage occurs to the pancreas and its function, often leading to fibrosis (scarring).

What causes pancreatitis?
The most common causes of pancreatitis are:

gallstones that block the pancreatic duct
alcohol abuse, which can lead to blockage of the small pancreatic ductules

What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?
The following are the other most common symptoms of pancreatitis. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

nausea
vomiting
fast pulse
feeling ill
fever
swelling in the upper abdomen
ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity)
dropping blood pressure
severe abdominal pain in upper abdomen (with acute pancreatitis)

The symptoms of pancreatitis may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Consult a physician for diagnosis.

How is pancreatitis diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and medical examination, diagnostic procedures for pancreatitis may include:

abdominal x-rays or scans
endoscopic exam of the pancreatic ducts
blood tests

Treatment for pancreatitis:
Specific treatment will be determined by your physician, based on:

your overall health and medical history
extent of the disease
your tolerance of specific medicines, procedures, or therapies
expectations for the course of the disease
your opinion or preference

Treatment may include:

hospitalization for observation and intravenous feeding
surgery
antibiotics
avoiding alcohol (if the pancreatitis is caused by alcohol abuse)

This page was last updated on: May 23, 2006.

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Endocrinology Health Guide

Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis: Men Vs. Women

Pancreatitis:
Men Vs. Women