The pancreas is an organ within the abdomen that produces specific enzymes that aid in digestion. If these enzymes become active before leaving the pancreas, they can damage the pancreatic tissue. As a result, patients can develop hemorrhagic pancreatitis--a condition characterized by abnormal inflammation and bleeding of the pancreas. The term "hemorrhagic pancreatitis" is no longer used within the American College of Gastroenterology guidelines and has instead been replaced by "acute pancreatitis," explains the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.
Abdominal Pain or Swelling
The most common symptom associated with hemorrhagic pancreatitis is severe pain within the abdomen. These painful symptoms are typically localized to the upper left region of the abdomen, which is where the pancreas is located, explains Medline Plus, an online medical encyclopedia established by the National Institutes of Health. Pancreatic inflammation causes this organ to enlarge and can contribute to abdominal swelling or tenderness in affected patients. Hemorrhagic pancreatitis pain symptoms can radiate into the back and may worsen after lying down or eating a snack or meal. Abdominal pain symptoms can become constant and may increase in severity over several days if treatment is not received.
Stomach Upset
Pancreatic swelling can irritate or inflame the intestinal tract in certain patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis. As a result, affected patients can develop nausea or vomiting as symptoms of this condition. Certain patients may also feel bloated or begin to hiccup, explains Medline Plus, which can lead to a decrease in appetite. Stomach upset symptoms can occur in conjunction with fever, fatigue, headache or dizziness in affected patients. If these symptoms persist or worsen, patients should seek additional evaluation and care from a physician.
Discolored Stools
Hemorrhagic pancreatitis patients can experience bowel movement changes as a symptom of this condition. Affected patients may notice that the stools are unusually discolored and may appear dark or clay-colored. This hemorrhagic pancreatitis symptom often occurs in conjunction with stomach upset symptoms and may contribute to sensations of abdominal bloating or fullness.
Jaundice
Swelling and inflammation within the pancreas can cause bile--a yellow-colored digestive fluid--to begin to build up within the body. If this occurs, patients with hemorrhagic pancreatitis can develop jaundice, a condition characterized by an abnormal yellowing of the skin or eyes. Patients who develop jaundice should seek additional medical care as soon as possible. Left untreated, jaundice can lead to medical complications in certain patients.
