When this happens, large quantities of pancreatic secretions pool in the pancreas and can digest the entire pancreas within a few hours. But because the islets of Langerhans are not adversely affected, the pancreas can continue secreting insulin. Acute pancreatitis is a condition demanding immediate medical attention. It is characterized by abdominal pain, vomiting, abdominal swelling and gas, fever, muscle aches, and a drop in blood pressure. When appropriately treated, the effects of acute pancreatitis usually calm down within five to seven days.
Treatment includes stopping oral consumption and providing nourishment only with intravenous fluids.
Chronic pancreatitis occurs when acute pancreatitis continues until pancreatic function is greatly diminished. A person can have recurrent attacks over several years. This may result in secondary bacterial infections of the pancreas, calcium deficiencies, and Type II diabetes. Pancreatic Cancer Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, affecting about 27,000 persons yearly. It is second only to colon cancer as a cause of death from gastrointestinal malignancy.