Pancreatitis is a medical condition characterized by severe inflammation of the pancreas--an organ that produces enzymes and hormones that aid in digestion. This inflammation occurs when the enzymes produced by the pancreas abnormally attack and degrade this organ. There are two types of pancreatitis: acute, in which symptoms occur suddenly and last for a few days with treatment; and chronic, in which symptoms persist and become worse over time. The symptoms of acute and chronic pancreatitis are similar, but chronic pancreatitis symptoms are typically more severe. Patients who develop any pancreatitis symptoms should seek further evaluation and care from a doctor.
Abdominal Pain or Swelling
The most common symptom associated with pancreatitis is abdominal pain. Sensations of pain typically arise within the upper left side of the abdomen and may occur gradually or suddenly. Certain patients with pancreatitis can develop abdominal pain that radiates into the lower back. Inflammation of the pancreas can also lead to abdominal swelling, which can cause the abdomen to feel tender or sore when touched. Sensations of abdominal pain may become worse after eating or lying down, explain medical professionals at Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Certain patients may find that these painful symptoms subside while leaning forward. Painful pancreatitis symptoms can persist for several hours or days, and may reoccur sporadically.
Stomach Upset
Patients with pancreatitis can develop stomach upset symptoms as a result of this condition. Affected patients can experience nausea or vomiting, which can contribute to a decrease in appetite.
Flu-like Symptoms
Pancreatitis can cause flu-like symptoms to emerge in certain patients. These flu-like symptoms can include fever, chills, sweating or unusual weakness, explains Medline Plus, an online medical resource established by the National Institutes of Health. Certain patients may notice that their skin appears unusually pale and is sticky or clammy to the touch. Patients who develop flu-like symptoms should seek medical care as these pancreatitis symptoms can also be signs of alternate infections.
Jaundice
Pancreas inflammation can interfere with the normal flow of bilirubin--a digestive enzyme--through the digestive tract. As a result, bilirubin may accumulate within the body and can cause jaundice. Jaundice is a symptom characterized by an unusual yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes. Left untreated, jaundice can cause significant medical complications.
Bowel Movement Changes and Weight Loss
Patients with chronic pancreatitis can experience bowel movement changes as a symptom of this condition. These bowel movement changes can include severe diarrhea or unusually pale or clay-colored stools. The stools may also appear oily or fatty and can emit a strong odor. Pancreatitis can interfere with the way in which nutrients are absorbed from ingested food. As a result, patients can experience significant unintended weight loss as a symptom of chronic pancreatitis.
