Acute pancreatitis
Acute Pancreatitis Treatment
Specialist assessment and follow-up after acute pancreatitis, including investigation of gallstones and other underlying causes.
Overview
Understanding acute pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas. It often causes severe upper abdominal pain that may pass through to the back, with nausea or vomiting. It can be mild and settle within a few days, but in some patients it can be serious and require close monitoring in hospital.
When to seek urgent help
Severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, jaundice, fever, confusion, breathlessness or worsening symptoms should be treated as urgent. Acute pancreatitis usually requires hospital assessment.
Acute pancreatitis treatment and specialist assessment
Acute pancreatitis treatment usually requires hospital assessment, blood tests and supportive care with intravenous fluids, pain relief and monitoring. Once the inflammation settles, the underlying cause should be identified and treated where possible.
What causes acute pancreatitis?
The two most common causes are gallstones and alcohol. Less common causes include certain medicines, high triglyceride levels, trauma, anatomical problems and, occasionally, no clear cause.
Acute pancreatitis symptoms
Typical symptoms include sudden severe pain in the upper abdomen, pain travelling through to the back, nausea, vomiting and feeling generally unwell. Some patients also develop fever, dehydration, abdominal swelling or jaundice.
How is acute pancreatitis diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on the history, examination and blood tests showing raised pancreatic enzymes. Ultrasound is commonly performed to look for gallstones, while CT, MRCP or endoscopic ultrasound may be used in selected patients.
Mild, moderate and severe pancreatitis
Mild pancreatitis usually improves with supportive treatment. Moderate or severe pancreatitis may affect other organs and can require high dependency or intensive care support.
Treatment for acute pancreatitis
Most patients need hospital care for pain relief, intravenous fluids and monitoring. Treatment also focuses on identifying and managing the underlying cause.
Gallstone pancreatitis
When acute pancreatitis is caused by gallstones, definitive treatment usually involves gallbladder removal once the inflammation has settled. ERCP may be needed if a stone remains in the bile duct or there is cholangitis.
Recovery after acute pancreatitis
Recovery depends on the severity of the attack and the underlying cause. Mild pancreatitis often settles within a few days, while severe pancreatitis can take much longer and may require follow-up imaging, nutritional support and specialist care.
Frequently asked questions
Acute pancreatitis FAQs
How quickly should acute pancreatitis be assessed?
Acute pancreatitis usually needs same-day medical assessment because pain, vomiting and dehydration can worsen quickly.
Can gallstones cause acute pancreatitis?
Yes. Small gallstones or biliary sludge can pass into the bile duct and temporarily block the pancreatic duct, triggering inflammation of the pancreas.
Will I need surgery after acute pancreatitis?
Surgery is not performed on the pancreas in most mild attacks. If gallstones are the cause, gallbladder removal may be recommended once the attack has settled.
Can acute pancreatitis come back?
Yes. Recurrence is more likely if the underlying cause, such as gallstones or alcohol intake, is not addressed.
What treatment is given for acute pancreatitis?
Treatment usually involves hospital care with intravenous fluids, pain relief, anti-sickness medication and monitoring.
Specialist care in Manchester
Book a consultation with Mr Christian Macutkiewicz
Arrange a private consultation at Spire Manchester Hospital to discuss your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment options.
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