Our bodies are incredibly complex! Each organ in our bodies is responsible for a specific function, and they all need to work together in harmony every day. When an organ becomes inflamed, like with pancreatitis, it can be uncomfortable and even dangerous!

The inflammation of the pancreas called pancreatitis can appear from a variety of causes, and if left untreated, it can lead to severe complications and even death.

We can help diagnose you if you are in pain! Check out our blog all about pancreatitis below and come see us at AFC Urgent Care Clemson if you are experiencing upper abdominal pain.

Where Does Pancreatitis Come From?

Your pancreas produces enzymes that help break down your food and control the hormones that help regulate the glucose levels in your body. When that process becomes disrupted, it can start to irritate your pancreas and cause swelling and inflammation.

Pancreatitis can be either acute or chronic. If you have an acute case, your symptoms usually appear very quickly and intensely. Chronic cases tend to develop over years of untreated acute cases from alcohol abuse or gallstone issues.

Signs of a Pancreatitis Flareup

• Upper abdominal pain
• Pain that radiates to your back
• Fever
• Tenderness when touching the abdomen

What Caused My Pancreatitis?

Two common causes are overuse of alcohol and the formation of gallstones. Gallstones can block the ducts in your gallbladder that connect to your pancreas and cause inflammation. Alcohol abuse is usually associated with chronic cases of pancreatitis, but acute cases can still occur after a single period of heavy alcohol use.

If you have pancreatitis and don’t seek treatment, you are at risk of developing a life-threatening infection. You could also develop kidney failure or pancreatic cancer as a result of untreated pancreatitis. This is why it is important to seek a medical opinion whenever you are experiencing abdominal pain.

Reduce Your Risk of Pancreatitis

• Reduce your alcohol intake.
• Quit smoking.
• Manage diabetes.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with diet and exercise.

Always take abdominal pain seriously. If your pain is radiating to your back, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Clemson for an initial evaluation.