What are the symptoms of pancreatitis and what causes it?

Jun 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I ate too much at a buffet for lunch today and now I have upper abdominal pain. I'm worried I might have pancreatitis. Could you please tell me what are the symptoms of pancreatitis and what causes it?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
The main symptoms of pancreatitis include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and fever. The abdominal pain is usually located in the upper middle abdomen and may radiate to the back, often accompanied by episodic exacerbation. Nausea and vomiting frequently occur, with vomitus primarily consisting of gastric contents. In addition, patients may also develop severe symptoms such as hypotension and shock. Pancreatitis has multiple causes, including biliary diseases such as gallstones and biliary tract infections, which are the main etiological factors. Other common causes include alcohol consumption, pancreatic duct obstruction, surgery or trauma, metabolic disorders, overeating, and binge drinking. These factors may lead to increased pressure within the pancreatic duct and leakage of pancreatic juice, triggering inflammation and damage to the pancreatic tissue.