Pancreatitis

What are the treatments for the disease?

Usually a person with pancreatitis is hospitalized. The person is not allowed to eat or drink anything, because this stimulates the pancreas to produce more enzymes. Fluids and nutrients are given through an intravenous line, which is a thin tube inserted into a vein.

A stomach tube is inserted through the nose into the stomach to remove fluids and air. Oxygen is given through a facemask, or through a tube that sits just inside the nose. Narcotics such as meperidine are used to control the pain. Antibiotics such as gentamicin, clindamycin, or chloramphenicol are used to treat infection. Surgery may be necessary to treat pancreatitis that is due to an injury, an infection that needs to be drained, or gallstones.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

There are side effects with any medication. Antibiotics may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or an allergic reaction. Narcotics may cause an allergic reaction, or trouble breathing. Possible side effects of surgery include bleeding, infection, and allergic reactions to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

If the pancreatitis is due to alcoholism, the prognosis is good if the person avoids alcohol. But if the person drinks, a recurrence of pancreatitis is likely. Pancreatitis from other causes can have varying outcomes, depending on the cause.

How is the disease monitored?

Pancreatitis is monitored by the health care provider. Blood tests may be done to check the white blood count and amylase and lipase levels. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the health care provider.