causes of acute onset pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is sudden inflammation of the pancreas that may be mild or life threatening but usually subsides. Gallstones and alcohol abuse are the main causes of acute pancreatitis. Severe abdominal pain is the predominant symptom. Blood tests and imaging tests, such as x-rays and computed tomography, help the doctor make the diagnosis. Whether mild or severe, acute pancreatitis usually requires hospitalization.