What is pancreatitis?
A person with pancreatitis has irritation and inflammation of the pancreas. The most common causes of pancreatitis include alcohol abuse, viral infections, and gallbladder disease.

What are the symptoms of pancreatitis?
Symptoms of pancreatitis include abdominal pain that is usually located in the center of the abdomen. Additional symptoms of pancreatitis include back pain, nausea, vomiting, fever, abdominal swelling, and difficulty breathing.

How does the doctor treat pancreatitis?
Treatment for pancreatitis includes a clear liquid diet, intravenous fluids, narcotic pain medications, medications to control vomiting, medications that reduce the production of stomach acid, and antibiotics. Rarely, surgery is required to treat chronic pancreatitis.