Pancreatitis Symptoms

Pancreatitis is an acute or chronic inflammation of the pancreas, primarily affecting the digestive system's function. It has a higher incidence in Europe and North America, often associated with alcohol consumption and gallstones. Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia and the Philippines also report high incidence rates, partly due to dietary habits and infections. Severe pancreatitis can lead to malabsorption, affecting the patient's overall health.

The harm of pancreatitis is not limited to local inflammation; it may also cause multi-organ dysfunction, severely threatening life. Early symptoms are diverse and easy to ignore, delaying treatment and increasing the risk of complications, which brings significant pain and financial burden to patients.

Detailed Symptoms of Pancreatitis

1. Severe Abdominal Pain
The most typical symptom of pancreatitis is severe upper abdominal pain, which is usually a constant dull pain and radiates to the back. When the pain is intense, the patient’s activities are limited, and the pain worsens at night, affecting sleep and daily life.

2. Nausea and Vomiting
Infection leads to gastrointestinal dysfunction, often accompanied by nausea and repeated vomiting. The vomiting is not alleviated, causing fluid and electrolyte imbalances, which affect recovery.

3. Indigestion
Due to insufficient enzyme secretion from the pancreas, fat and protein digestion is hindered. Patients often experience bloating, diarrhea, and fatty stools, which, if prolonged, can lead to malnutrition and weight loss.

4. Fever and General Discomfort
Some patients experience fever, chills, and fatigue due to the inflammatory response, indicating an enhanced immune reaction and significant inflammation activity.

5. Jaundice
If inflammation affects the bile duct, it can cause bile duct obstruction, leading to yellowing of the skin and eyes, and darkening of the urine, indicating severe illness.

6. Hypotension and Shock
Severe pancreatitis can release inflammatory mediators, inducing vasodilation and leakage, causing a drop in blood pressure and even shock, which requires emergency treatment.

7. Shortness of Breath
Acute pancreatitis patients may develop pleural effusion or lung dysfunction, presenting as rapid or difficult breathing, indicating a complicated condition.

8. Abdominal Swelling
Inflammation within the abdominal cavity or the accumulation of fluid around the pancreas can cause abdominal distension. Palpation may reveal tenderness, reflecting the expansion of the inflammation.

Conclusion

Pancreatitis has a variety of symptoms, and severe cases can be life-threatening. Early recognition and timely treatment are crucial. Experts from Life International Medical Center remind patients to pay attention to abdominal discomfort and avoid delaying diagnosis. With standardized treatment and scientific management, the condition can be effectively controlled, improving quality of life and preventing severe complications.