What is Pancreatitis:
Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach and close to the duodenum. The duodenum is the upper part of the small intestine. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine through a tube called the pancreatic duct. These enzymes help digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates in food. The pancreas also releases the hormones insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream. These hormones help the body use the glucose it takes from food for energy.
Normally, digestive enzymes do not become active until they reach the small intestine, where they begin digesting food. But if these enzymes become active inside the pancreas, they start "digesting" the pancreas itself.
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.
Have a look of the picture:
 What is chronic pancreatitis?Chronic pancreatitis occurs when digestive enzymes attack and destroy the pancreas and nearby tissues, causing scarring and pain.
Acute Pancreatitis Most cases of acute pancreatitis will improve within three to seven days with conservative therapy.
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