Customer question:
What is the difference between acute and chronic inflammation of the pancreas? Question from an anonymous forum customer
Pharmacist's answer:
The clinical manifestations of acute pancreatitis are generally limited to epigastric pain or right upper quadrant abdominal pain. In contrast, the pain of chronic pancreatitis is more widespread and may include pain throughout the abdomen along with signs and symptoms of pancreatic endocrine and exocrine insufficiency.
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If pancreatitis is not treated, both types can progress from mild to severe.
Acute pancreatitis is usually treated in a hospital, where you will be closely monitored and given supportive care such as adequate hydration and oxygen. People with mild acute pancreatitis usually start to feel better within a week and have no further problems, or the problems improve within 48 hours.
Chronic pancreatitis is a long-term condition that may result from repeated injury to the pancreas rather than an acute inflammatory process. Chronic pancreatitis is when the pancreas is permanently damaged due to inflammation and stops working correctly.
The most common symptom of chronic pancreatitis is repeated episodes of severe abdominal pain. The pain usually develops in the middle or left side of the abdomen and may move toward the back. It is described as a burning pain that comes and goes but can last for hours or days. Although the pain sometimes occurs after eating a meal, it often does not remain a specific trigger.
Interesting reading: Pancreatitis Symptoms forum