One of the important functions of the pancreas is production of the digestive enzyme. However, the digestive system is not the only part of the body that is affected by pancreas function. The pancreas produces not only “enzymes” and hormones, but also hormones such as insulin, glucagon, and pancreatic polypeptide. Insulin is the hormone responsible for regulation of blood glucose levels. Glucagon is the hormone that tends to increase blood glucose levels; it increases blood glucose levels when the body does not need insulin. Pancreatic polypeptide is the hormone that raises blood glucose levels. Pancreatic dysfunction can cause fluctuations in blood glucose levels. If pancreas secretions remain low, hypoglycemia (low levels of glucose in blood) may occur; however, if pancreas secretions remain high, hyperglycemia (high levels of glucose in blood) may occur. Pancreatitis can be an acute or chronic condition. Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of pancreas that may require medical treatment. Chronic pancreatitis can be due to various factors, such as alcohol abuse, infection, or chronic inflammatory diseases such as cystic fibrosis. Gastritis can also be caused by pancreas function. Pancreatitis and gastritis are both characterized by abdominal pain and infection.