Types of pancreatitis
Pancreatitis can be an acute or chronic condition. In other words, you can start having pancreatitis symptoms suddenly, but it can be an ongoing condition that accompanies you for a long time.
1. Acute pancreatitis is more common than chronic pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis is caused by a blockage of the pancreatic ducts, usually by gallstones. It is usually severe, causing potentially life-threatening complications, such as kidney failure, cholangitis, and septic shock. The symptoms of acute pancreatitis include abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Severe acute pancreatitis can be associated with acute respiratory distress syndrome.
2. Chronic pancreatitis can be caused by autoimmune destruction of the pancreas, and alcohol abuse, among other causes. In some cases, the cause of chronic pancreatitis is unknown. Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis are similar, including pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and jaundice. Chronic pancreatitis can also lead to pancreatic cancer.
