Pancreatitis treatment may include hydration, dietary changes, pain medications, enzyme replacement, and surgery. In chronic cases, lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol are also important.

Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that can be caused by excessive alcohol use or blockage of the bile ducts. Symptoms often include severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and weight loss.

When pancreatitis is suspected, a gastroenterologist should be consulted to determine the most appropriate treatment. If severe pain, fever, nausea, or vomiting develops, seeking emergency medical care is recommended.

Main treatment options

Pancreatitis treatment, whether acute or chronic, can involve:

1. Hydration

Hydration is typically done with intravenous fluids. This is an essential part of treating acute pancreatitis, as it helps prevent dehydration, improves blood flow to the pancreas, and reduces the risk of complications such as pancreatic necrosis.

2. Fasting or dietary changes

In acute pancreatitis, fasting is usually recommended during the early phase until abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting improve. This allows the pancreas to rest and recover more effectively.

As food is gradually reintroduced, light, easy-to-digest, and low-fat meals are preferred. Read more about the pancreatitis diet that your doctor may advise.

3. Pain medications

Pain management in acute or chronic pancreatitis may involve:

Acetaminophen
Ibuprofen, diclofenac, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Tramadol, codeine, morphine, or other opioids

The choice of medication depends on the severity of the pain and should always be guided by a doctor.

4. Antibiotics

Intravenous antibiotics may be prescribed in acute pancreatitis when there is suspicion of pancreatic necrosis and infection. This is more commonly used in older adults and people with weakened immune systems.

5. Pancreatic enzyme replacement

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy is often recommended during meals in cases of chronic pancreatitis, especially when abdominal pain and diarrhea are frequent. This helps improve digestion and control symptoms.

6. Surgery

Surgery may be required in acute pancreatitis when infected pancreatic necrosis develops and symptoms worsen despite antibiotic treatment.

Surgical intervention may also be necessary in cases of fluid buildup in the pancreas (pseudocyst) or gallstones.

In chronic pancreatitis, surgery is usually considered when complications such as pancreatic abscess, bile duct obstruction, narrowing of the duodenum (the first part of the small intestine), or bleeding occur.

Home remedies for pancreatitis

For chronic pancreatitis, home care usually involves quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol to help prevent recurrent flare-ups.

It is also important to limit fatty foods and instead eat small, frequent meals that are easy to digest, such as skim milk, egg whites, and lean meats. These dietary changes can help reduce abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Can pancreatitis be cured?

In some cases, pancreatitis can be cured, especially when the underlying cause is identified and treated properly.

However, in other situations, the pancreas may sustain permanent damage, and symptoms such as pain can return, particularly in chronic pancreatitis.

Pancreatitis Treatment (Acute & Chronic Care Measures)