This is the body's reaction to when the pancreas becomes irritated and damaged by its own enzymes. Because the pancreas is at the back of the abdomen, it is common to get pain both in your back and in your abdomen. The most common cause is gallstones. These pass from the gall bladder, down the bile duct and then become lodged where the duct opens into the intestine. This therefore prevents the pancreatic juices from draining into the intestine, and so they build up and aggravate the pancreas.
Alcohol is also one of the main causes of acute pancreatitis.
An attack usually develops a day or so after drinking alcohol although the amount that sets it off can vary from person to person. In a few cases, no cause can be found. Pancreatitis is a very variable disease, and it is not fully understood. Most cases of acute pancreatitis are mild and will include abdominal pain and involve a short stay in hospital. The pancreas usually completely heals and the patient fully recovers.