Course and Outcome Most patients with this condition recover well, although a few, especially those who have alcohol-induced pancreatitis, may become desperately sick. When recovered, the patient needs to make life-style changes to prevent a recurrence. For example, avoiding alcohol and drugs, reducing blood triglycerides, or having gallbladder surgery. This condition occurs mostly in alcoholics or people who repeatedly binge drink alcohol. The main symptoms are recurrent, dull, or moderate pain without the severe toxic features of acute pancreatitis.
Treatment consists of rest, medication, and certain food restrictions.
Alcohol consumption is absolutely prohibited. However, in cases where damage is extensive, chronic pancreatitis and pain can occur even when alcohol consumption has stopped. Diagnosis of this condition is made by measuring blood enzymes and by performing abdominal CT, x-rays, and ultrasound exams. An ERCP endoscopic test is often performed. In this test, a flexible endoscope is passed through the mouth into the intestine while the patient is lightly sedated.