An inflammation of the organ lying behind the lower part of the stomach ( pancreas) .It may be an acute ( sudden) or chronic ( long lasting) condition.

It has many causes , most common being gallstones and chronic heavy alcohol abuse. High triglycerides and high calcium levels in blood and certain medications also commonly cause this condition.

Symptoms include pain in upper part of stomach ( maily left side and middle ) which often radiates to the back and is associated with nausea, vomitinh, fever and higher heart rate. Patients with chronic pancreatitis may experience constant pain, diarrhea and weight loss.
Condition may range from mild symptomatic to severe complicated one requiring hospital admission.

A clinical diagnosis is made on history , symptoms and examination, further confirmed by blood tests and imaging like ultrasonography, CT scan and MRI abdomen findings. Endoscopic ultrasound ( EUS) and stool test may be required in chronic cases.

Treatment includes supportive care in the form of pain medications , intravenous fluids and later treating the underlying cause. These days early feeding is encouraged ( as tolerated by the patient) .

Chronic cases require changes in diet, long term pain management therapy and enzymes to improve the digestion