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- Pancreatitis (Acute and Chronic)
- SYMPTOMS for the acute form include nausea, vomiting, fever and a steady,
- severe abdominal pain that is usually the sharpest in the stomach area,
- extends into the back and chest and may be relieved by sitting up. For the
- chronic form, the symptoms include abdominal pain that may be mild, severe,
- intermittent or constant. It begins in the stomach area and then extends to
- the back and left shoulder. There may be jaundice (yellowing of the skin).
- CAUSES. AP is an acute inflammation of the pancreas that may follow injury,
- pregnancy, use of drugs such as corticosteroids and diuretics, abdominal
- surgery, infectious disease or penetrating peptic ulcer. Causes for the
- chronic form are the same as for the acute form but the most common factor
- is excessive alcohol intake. Sometimes gallstones are involved.
- TREATMENT. Stomach suction pump may be required. Medication and antibiotics.
- .Stop all alcohol intake. Special diet may be required.
- .Partial removal of pancreas may be required.