Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is a large organ behind the stomach that produces digestive enzymes and a number of hormones.[1]
There are two main types, acute pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Signs and symptoms of pancreatitis include pain in the upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting.[2] The pain often goes into the back and is usually severe.
The most common causes of acute pancreatitis are gallstones and heavy alcohol use.[2]