Acute Pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas becomes suddenly irritated and swollen (inflammation). The pancreas is a gland that is located behind the stomach. It produces enzymes that help digest food. The pancreas also releases the hormones glucagon and insulin that help regulate blood sugar. Damage to the pancreas occurs when the digestive enzymes from the pancreas are activated and begin attacking the pancreas before being released into the intestine.
Most acute attacks last a couple of days and can cause serious problems. Some people become dehydrated and develop low blood pressure. In severe cases, bleeding into the pancreas can lead to shock and can be life-threatening. The lungs, heart, and kidneys may …show more content…
DIAGNOSIS
This condition may be diagnosed based on:
• A physical exam.
• Blood tests.
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or an ultrasound of the abdomen.
TREATMENT
Treatment for this condition usually requires a stay in the hospital. Treatment may include:
• Pain medicine.
• Fluid replacement through an IV tube.
• Placing a tube in the stomach to remove stomach contents and to control vomiting (nasogastric tube).
• Not eating for 3 or 4 days. This gives the pancreas a rest, because enzymes are not being produced that can cause further damage.
• Antibiotic medicines if your condition is caused by an infection.
• Surgery on the pancreas or gallbladder.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Eating and Drinking
• Follow instructions from your health care provider about diet. This may involve avoiding alcohol and decreasing the amount of fat in your diet.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals. This reduces the amount of digestive fluids that the pancreas produces.
• Drink enough fluid to keep your urine clear or pale yellow.
• Do not drink alcohol if it caused your condition.
General Instructions
• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care
Acute pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas becomes suddenly irritated and swollen (inflammation). The pancreas is a gland that is located behind the stomach. It produces enzymes that help digest food. The pancreas also releases the hormones glucagon and insulin that help regulate blood sugar. Damage to the pancreas occurs when the digestive enzymes from the pancreas are activated and begin attacking the pancreas before being released into the intestine.
Most acute attacks last a couple of days and can cause serious problems. Some people become dehydrated and develop low blood pressure. In severe cases, bleeding into the pancreas can lead to shock and can be life-threatening. The lungs, heart, and kidneys may …show more content…
DIAGNOSIS
This condition may be diagnosed based on:
• A physical exam.
• Blood tests.
• Imaging tests, such as X-rays, CT scans, or an ultrasound of the abdomen.
TREATMENT
Treatment for this condition usually requires a stay in the hospital. Treatment may include:
• Pain medicine.
• Fluid replacement through an IV tube.
• Placing a tube in the stomach to remove stomach contents and to control vomiting (nasogastric tube).
• Not eating for 3 or 4 days. This gives the pancreas a rest, because enzymes are not being produced that can cause further damage.
• Antibiotic medicines if your condition is caused by an infection.
• Surgery on the pancreas or gallbladder.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
Eating and Drinking
• Follow instructions from your health care provider about diet. This may involve avoiding alcohol and decreasing the amount of fat in your diet.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals. This reduces the amount of digestive fluids that the pancreas produces.
• Drink enough fluid to keep your urine clear or pale yellow.
• Do not drink alcohol if it caused your condition.
General Instructions
• Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your health care