In this Article

• What is pancreatitis?
• What are the causes of acute pancreatitis?
• What are the symptoms of acute pancreatitis?
• How is acute pancreatitis diagnosed?
• How is acute pancreatitis treated?
• What about gallstones and pancreatitis?
• What is chronic pancreatitis?
• What are the symptoms of chronic pancreatitis?
• How is chronic pancreatitis diagnosed?
• How is chronic pancreatitis treated?
• Pancreatitis in children
• Pancreatitis At A Glance
• Patient Discussions: Pancreatitis - Describe Your Experience
• Pancreatitis Glossary
• Pancreatitis Index

Pancreatitis in children

Chronic pancreatitis is rare in children. Trauma to the pancreas and hereditary pancreatitis are two known causes of childhood pancreatitis. Children with cystic fibrosis, a progressive, disabling, and incurable lung disease, may also have pancreatitis. But more often the cause is not known.

Pancreatitis At A Glance

• Pancreatitis begins when the digestive enzymes become active inside the pancreas and start "digesting" it.

• Pancreatitis has two forms: acute and chronic

• Common causes of pancreatitis are gallstones or alcohol abuse.

• Sometimes no cause for pancreatitis can be found.

• Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include pain in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, fever, and a rapid pulse.

• Treatment for acute pancreatitis can include intravenous fluids, oxygen, antibiotics, or surgery.

• Acute pancreatitis becomes chronic when pancreatic tissue is destroyed and scarring develops.

• Treatment for chronic pancreatitis includes easing the pain; eating a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet; and taking enzyme supplements. Surgery is sometimes needed as well.

SOURCE: The National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Pancreatitis - Describe Your Experience

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The symptoms of pancreatitis can vary greatly from patient to patient. What were your symptoms at the onset of your disease?

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