Pancreas Pain Causes

It can be difficult to diagnose the cause of pancreas pain because it resembles pain caused by a number of other organs located near the pancreas. 

Below are the most common causes of pancreas pain, along with a brief description of their symptoms.

Acute pancreatitis - Pancreatitis occurs when the pancreas becomes inflamed. Causes include alcohol abuse, gallstones and gallbladder disease.

If you have acute pancreatitis, you'll feel pain from the inflammation of your pancreas, usually in the upper left abdomen. Fever, jaundice, nausea and vomiting may also occur, along with a swollen abdomen and clay colored stools. Excessive perspiration and stomach gas are also characteristics of acute pancreatitis.

Chronic pancreatitis - Pancreatitis is considered to be chronic when it has led to scarring and loss of pancreas function. Symptoms are similar to acute pancreatitis, with the addition of unintentional weight loss and fatty stools. The pancreas pain is similar to the pain of acute pancreatitis.

Pancreas tumor - This disease is also widely known as pancreatic cancer. Causes are unknown, but smokers appear to be at higher risk. There are no early symptoms, but as the cancer grows and spreads, it causes a dull pain in the upper abdomen which may radiate to the back. Other symptoms include jaundice, weight loss, vomiting, nausea and reduced appetite.

Pancreas cancer can only be cured if it is diagnosed in an early stage. Pain and other symptoms can be relieved during the course of pancreas cancer, but unfortunately a permanent cure is often unattainable by the time the disease is discovered.

Pancreas Pain Treatment

Pancreas pain caused by pancreatitis can be severe enough to require hospitalization. During the hospital stay, the patient will receive intravenous feedings, which reduce secretions and allow the pancreas to recover sooner.

The patient may also be given prescription pain relievers to reduce discomfort. Consuming alcohol during a bout of pancreatitis can cause major complications in treatment. Doctors are also likely to recommend a low fat diet.

Surgery is sometimes necessary. Pain resulting from pancreas cancer is usually treated with powerful prescription pain relievers.

Other types of medications that may also be used include acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.