Pancreatitis Patient Education

What is Pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis (say: PAN-kree-uh-TY-tis) is when your pancreas, an organ near your stomach, becomes swollen and inflamed. The pancreas helps with digestion and controlling blood sugar. When it is inflamed, it can cause pain and problems with digestion.

Causes and Risk Factors

Heavy alcohol use or binge drinking
Gallstones that block the pancreas
Certain medicines
High levels of fats (triglycerides) in the blood
Injury or surgery near the pancreas
Some infections or genetic conditions

Signs and Symptoms

Severe pain in the upper belly that can spread to the back
Nausea and vomiting
Fever
Rapid heartbeat
Swollen or tender belly
Feeling very tired or weak

Early Warning Signs

Mild upper belly pain after eating fatty foods or drinking alcohol
Feeling sick or vomiting
Mild stomach discomfort

Complications if Untreated or Not Following Treatment

Severe infection
Damage to the pancreas or nearby organs
Problems with digestion and nutrition
Diabetes if the pancreas is damaged
Fluid buildup or cysts near the pancreas
Organ failure in severe cases

Treatment and Self-Care Measures

Hospital care may be needed for severe pancreatitis
Pain medicine to control pain
Fluids through an IV to stay hydrated
Sometimes a feeding tube if you can’t eat
Avoid alcohol and fatty foods
Follow up with your doctor regularly

Common Medications

Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or stronger meds)
Medicines to lower triglycerides if needed
Enzyme supplements if pancreas does not make enough digestive juices

Side Effects: Pain medicines can cause drowsiness or stomach upset. Always use as directed.

Dietary Needs

Eat small, low-fat meals
Avoid alcohol completely
Drink plenty of water
Avoid sugary foods if you have diabetes
Follow any special diet plans your doctor gives you

Lifestyle Changes

Stop drinking alcohol
Quit smoking
Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly as advised by your doctor

Safety Considerations

Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity while recovering
Take medicines exactly as prescribed
Report any new or worsening symptoms right away

Prevention and Maintenance Tips

Avoid alcohol and fatty foods
Control your blood fats (cholesterol and triglycerides)
Manage any gallstones or other health issues
Get regular check-ups to monitor your pancreas health

When to Call for Help

Call your Home Health Agency or Doctor if:

You have ongoing or worsening belly pain
You feel nauseous or vomit often
You develop fever or chills
You notice swelling or tenderness in your belly
You feel weak or dizzy
You have side effects from medicines

Go to the Emergency Room if:

You have sudden, very severe belly or back pain
You cannot keep food or fluids down for several hours
You have high fever or shaking chills
You feel very weak, confused, or faint
You have difficulty breathing or chest pain
Your belly becomes very swollen and hard

Patient Homework / Assessment

Instructions: Read each statement below. Circle True if the statement is correct or False if it is incorrect. If the statement is False, please write the correct answer.

True or False: Pancreatitis is swelling of the pancreas.
True or False: Heavy alcohol use can cause pancreatitis.
True or False: Gallstones can block the pancreas and cause pancreatitis.
True or False: Pancreatitis causes mild pain that usually goes away quickly.
True or False: Vomiting and nausea can be symptoms of pancreatitis.
True or False: You should continue drinking alcohol to help pancreatitis heal.
True or False: Fatty foods can make pancreatitis worse.
True or False: Pancreatitis can cause problems with digestion and blood sugar.
True or False: Pain medicine may be used to help with pancreatitis pain.
True or False: Drinking plenty of water helps in pancreatitis recovery.
True or False: Smoking does not affect pancreatitis.
True or False: Pancreatitis can lead to serious complications if untreated.
True or False: You should avoid heavy exercise while recovering from pancreatitis.
True or False: Pancreatitis always requires surgery.
True or False: You should call your doctor if you have fever and belly pain.
True or False: Pancreatitis can cause fluid buildup near the pancreas.
True or False: Enzyme supplements may be needed if the pancreas doesn’t work well.
True or False: You should eat large meals with high fat to heal pancreatitis faster.
True or False: Pancreatitis can sometimes cause diabetes.
True or False: Severe belly pain and vomiting require emergency care.

Individualized Questions About Your Pancreatitis

When did your symptoms start?
How severe is your pain?
What medicines are you currently taking?
Have you noticed any side effects from your medications?
Are you able to eat and drink normally?
Have you had any recent alcohol use?
Do you have a history of gallstones?
Have you had any lab tests or imaging done? What were the results?
Are you able to follow your diet plan?
Have you noticed any new symptoms like fever, swelling, or weakness?