Pancreatic pain as a result of exercise is rare, and is likely the result of an acute pancreatitis, or an inflammation of the pancreas. The link between this inflammation and exercise isn't well understood, but it's thought to be the result of a combination of factors in which exercise contributes to the development of pancreatitis.
Development
Acute pancreatitis from exercise is at least partly due to blood flow. Engaging in more vigorous exercise diverts blood from your organs to your muscles, which inevitably reduces the amount of blood to the pancreas. Normally, this shouldn't cause a problem. But if you're not properly replenishing your fluids during your exercise, you can suffer from dehydration, potentially leading to something known as hypovolemia. Hypovolemia is a decrease in blood volume, namely plasma. This can compound the already reduced blood flow to the pancreas, and thereby causing damage to pancreatic tissue. Making matter worse, vigorous physical activities can bring about mechanical trauma to the organ. As you move, the pancreas can come into repeated contact with your abdominal wall and even spine, which can further damage pancreatic tissue. Combining all these factors, the pancreas can become inflamed and lead to symptoms associated with the condition.
Symptoms
Pancreatic pain is best described as a sudden upper abdominal pain. For some people, this pain can radiate from the abdomen into the back or chest, while others find the pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. When you suffer an acute pancreatitis during exercise, you may also notice an abnormal amount of sweating and even a higher than normal respiration or heart rate.
Treatment
Acute pancreatitis often requires hospitalization, and care typically begins with fasting, notes MayoClinic.com. The reason for this is that the pancreas is responsible for enzymes that aid in digestion. Keeping food out of your digestive tract gives your pancreas a break and allows for inflammation to subside. Patients also receive medications to reduce the pain and IV fluids to prevent dehydration.
Prevention
Doctors recommend regular exercise as part of treatment to prevent a repeat of the attack, especially when the condition is a result of high triglyceride levels. In this situation, your doctor may have certain recommendations for physical activity. This doesn't necessarily mean you can't continue exercising, but you may have to make certain modifications before returning to your regular activities.
