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Pancreatitis

Also called: Pancreatitis, inflamed pancreas

Inflammation of the pancreas causing severe upper belly pain that spreads to the back, with nausea and vomiting. Gallstones and alcohol are the main causes.

Main causesGallstones, alcohol, high triglycerides
NeedsHospital care often

Overview

Gallstones blocking the pancreas duct and heavy alcohol use cause most cases.

Severe pancreatitis can affect other organs.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Severe upper belly pain to the back
  • Upper middle belly pain (below the breastbone)
  • Belly pain spreading to the back

Less common

  • Vomiting
  • Fever
  • Swollen belly
  • Fast heartbeat

Look up a symptom: Belly pain spreading to the back · Nausea · Upper left belly pain (under the left ribs) · Upper middle belly pain (below the breastbone) · Vomiting

When to get medical care

Call 911Severe belly pain with vomiting.
Get care todayUpper belly pain after drinking.
See a doctor soonRepeat attacks.

Causes

Gallstones, alcohol.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Heavy drinking

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Blood tests and imaging.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Lipase:
  • Ultrasound or CT:

Treatment

Get care.

Self-care

  • Avoid alcohol

IV fluids, pain control, gallbladder removal.

Prevention

  • Limit alcohol

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Heavy drinkers: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Most recover.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • Should my gallbladder come out?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Pancreatitis

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.