What are the symptoms of chronic pancreatitis?

Chronic pancreatitis is an irreversible alteration in the structure and function of pancreatic tissue caused by various factors. It is also a classic chronic inflammatory disease that can lead to progressive impairment of pancreatic function, ultimately resulting in complete pancreatic necrosis—causing significant harm to the patient. So, what symptoms does chronic pancreatitis cause?

Symptoms of Chronic Pancreatitis

Patients with chronic pancreatitis commonly experience nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, indigestion, and steatorrhea (fatty diarrhea). Chronic pancreatitis is a type of pancreatitis primarily caused by pancreatic fibrosis resulting from recurrent episodes of acute pancreatitis. Clinically, it often manifests as upper abdominal pain; in severe cases, the pain may radiate to the back or lumbar region—and may be extremely intense, sometimes unrelieved even by analgesics. Because chronic pancreatitis significantly impairs dietary intake, many affected individuals develop malnutrition and unintended weight loss. Importantly, chronic pancreatitis can markedly impair both the endocrine and exocrine functions of the pancreas. Endocrine dysfunction may disrupt insulin and glucagon secretion, leading to abnormal glucose tolerance—and even diabetes mellitus.

In some patients, early symptoms of chronic pancreatitis resemble those of peritonitis: palpation of the upper abdomen elicits tenderness. However, unlike peritonitis, chronic pancreatitis typically does not involve marked abdominal muscle rigidity. As the disease progresses, however, patients may develop pronounced abdominal tenderness, accompanied by obvious muscle guarding and rebound tenderness. At this stage, pain is no longer confined to the upper abdomen but may spread throughout the entire abdomen. Patients may also exhibit marked fever—a hallmark symptom of chronic pancreatitis and an important diagnostic clue.

Patients are advised to avoid spicy, pungent, fried, and other highly irritating foods; smoking and alcohol consumption must be strictly avoided. Maintaining a light, bland diet is critically important. We hope this information proves helpful to you.