​​Acute Pancreatitis

Acute pancreatitis is the sudden inflammation of the pancreas (gland in the upper abdomen that produces enzymes for digestion and hormones for regulating glucose processing) due to the activation of digestive enzymes in the pancreas and an attack of these enzymes on the pancreas. Normally the enzymes produced are inactive until they reach the small intestine. 

Acute pancreatitis can last for a few days (acute) and may become life-threatening but usually there are high chances of recovering from acute pancreatitis. In severe cases, acute pancreatitis can lead to internal bleeding in the pancreas, tissue damage, infection and cyst formation. 

People who have a history of gallstones​ and alcoholism are at a greater risk of getting acute pancreatitis. Other causes may include:

• Abdominal surgery
  

• Smoking 
  

• Certain medications 
  

• Excessive amounts of fats and fatty acids in the blood (hyperlipidaemia)
  

• Excessive amount of calcium in the blood (hyperkalaemia)
  

• Infection​

When to seek expert advise

In the event of acute pancreatitis, timely consultation with a doctor is very important. Visit the Internal Medicine Service Line at the Aga Khan University Hospital, in case of persistent abdominal pain. If the pain gets unbearable, seek immediate medical help. ​​​