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Pancreatitis

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Understanding Pancreatitis: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment in Pakistan

Do you feel severe pain in your upper belly that spreads to your back? Have you ever been told your pancreas is swollen or inflamed? You may be suffering from a condition called pancreatitis.

In Pakistan, thousands of people every year face stomach and digestion problems without knowing the real reason. One of the lesser-known but serious conditions is pancreatitis, an illness that can be both short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic). This blog will help you understand what pancreatitis is, its symptoms, causes, and how it can be treated. We’ve written it in easy English so you can better understand your health and take action.

What is Pancreatitis?

Your pancreas is a small organ located behind your stomach. It plays a big role in helping your body digest food and control sugar levels by making special juices and hormones. When the pancreas becomes inflamed or swollen, the condition is called pancreatitis.

There are two main types of pancreatitis:

  • Acute Pancreatitis: This comes suddenly and lasts for a short time. It may be mild or very painful and dangerous.
  • Chronic Pancreatitis: This is long-term inflammation that happens again and again. Over time, it can damage your pancreas permanently.

Common Symptoms of Pancreatitis

The signs of pancreatitis can vary, but some common symptoms include:

  • Strong pain in the upper part of your stomach (pain may go to your back)
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Fever
  • Bloating or swollen belly
  • Yellow skin (jaundice)
  • Weight loss (especially in chronic pancreatitis)

You may experience these symptoms after eating oily or spicy food. If you feel pain like this regularly, it’s important to see a stomach specialist.

Causes of Pancreatitis: Why It Happens

There are many causes of pancreatitis, and knowing them can help you protect your health. Some of the most common pancreatitis causes in Pakistan are:

  1. Gallstones – Small stones in the gallbladder that block the flow of pancreatic juice.
  2. Alcohol – Drinking too much alcohol is a leading cause of chronic pancreatitis.
  3. High triglyceride levels – Fats in the blood can cause inflammation in the pancreas.
  4. Medications – Some medicines like antibiotics or chemotherapy drugs may lead to pancreatitis.
  5. Infections or injuries to the pancreas.
  6. Family history – If someone in your family had pancreatitis, you may also be at risk.

🔍 Breakout Concern: Recently, many people are searching about “drugs causing pancreatitis” and “pancreatitis reasons.” That means awareness is growing, and it’s important to stay informed.

If you want to know more about stomach-related illnesses, visit our blog on stomach cancer symptoms, detection & cure.

Diagnosis & Treatment: Getting the Right Help

If your doctor suspects you have pancreatitis, they may do the following tests:

  • Blood tests to check enzyme levels
  • Ultrasound or CT scan to see inflammation
  • MRI for more detailed imaging
  • ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) to find blockages
  • Colonoscopy or Endoscopic Ultrasound to examine your digestive tract closely

How is Pancreatitis Treated?

Treatment depends on how serious your condition is. For acute pancreatitis, you may need:

  • Hospital stay for a few days
  • IV fluids and pain management
  • Resting your stomach (no food for 1–2 days)
  • Antibiotics if there is an infection

For chronic pancreatitis, treatment focuses on:

  • Controlling pain
  • Enzyme tablets to help with digestion
  • Avoiding alcohol and fatty foods
  • Treating diabetes (if developed)
  • PEG tube placement procedure in serious cases for nutrition

👉 In rare cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged parts of the pancreas or open blocked ducts.

Location of Pain: Many people search for “pancreatitis pain location.” The pain is usually in the upper middle of the belly and can go toward your back or chest. It may feel worse after eating.

When to See a Specialist?

If you experience repeated stomach pain, especially after eating, or notice yellow skin and weight loss, it’s time to see a gastroenterologist. Early diagnosis of pancreatitis can save your pancreas from permanent damage.

At Islamabad Gastroenterology Associates (IGA), we provide complete care for pancreas, liver, and stomach diseases. Our team is trained to perform advanced procedures like ERCP, ultrasound endoscopy, and PEG tube placement.

We also use international tools like the Ranson criteria for acute pancreatitis to check how severe your condition is and give you the best care possible.

Conclusion: Don’t Ignore Pancreatitis – Act Early

Pancreatitis is a serious condition, but it can be managed with the right care and lifestyle changes. Many Pakistanis suffer in silence without knowing they have this disease. Don’t wait for the pain to get worse.

If you or your loved ones have symptoms like belly pain, weight loss, or digestion issues, get checked today. Early treatment means better results.

Call to Action:
Book your consultation now with our expert gastroenterologists at Islamabad Gastroenterology Associates. We are here to help you live a healthy, pain-free life.

Also, check this helpful resource on gut health and well-being to learn how to care for your digestive system.