What Is Pancreatitis?

​

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas, a gland behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and regulates blood sugar. It occurs in two forms: acute (sudden onset) and chronic (ongoing or recurrent inflammation with progressive damage to the pancreas).

​

Acute Pancreatitis

​​

​The most common causes of acute pancreatitis in the United States are gallstones and alcohol use. Symptoms include severe upper abdominal pain that may radiate to the back, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Most cases of acute pancreatitis resolve with supportive care, but severe cases can lead to complications requiring hospitalization. Our gastroenterologists work closely with hospital teams for patients requiring inpatient care.

​

Chronic Pancreatitis

​​​​

Chronic pancreatitis involves progressive, irreversible damage to the pancreas, leading to impaired digestion (exocrine insufficiency) and diabetes (endocrine insufficiency). It is most commonly caused by chronic heavy alcohol use, but can also result from genetic mutations, autoimmune conditions, or recurrent acute pancreatitis. Symptoms include chronic abdominal pain, fatty/oily stools (steatorrhea), and weight loss.

​

Diagnosis and Advanced Procedures

​

Diagnosis may require imaging (CT, MRI/MRCP), endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and in some cases ERCP for therapeutic intervention. Advanced Gastroenterology Group has physicians trained in EUS and ERCP (Dr. Grover and Dr Viksjo) — advanced endoscopic procedures critical for evaluating and treating pancreatic and biliary disease.​

​

Book a Pancreatitis Evaluation in NJ — Call (908) 851-2770 or Schedule Online