Pancreatitis: Patient Education from University of Colorado Hospital
Living with Pancreatitis
If you have acute pancreatitis, you may experience:
- Pain that is not relieved by medications prescribed by your doctor
- Nausea and vomiting leading to dehydration
- Fever
If these occur, be sure to contact your primary care doctor, urgent care center or emergency department. Many times you can manage the pain on an outpatient basis. However, in some cases, upper abdominal pain caused by pancreatitis may require hospitalization.
If you have chronic (long term) pancreatitis, you may have frequent bouts of pain. This will require the advice of a gastroenterologist, pain specialist or surgeon.
Pancreatitis: Getting a Second Opinion
You can request a second opinion for your condition if you are not satisfied with the care you have received or if your questions have not been addressed to your satisfaction. Seek a second opinion if:
- You need more information about your condition
- You want access to endoscopic or surgical procedures
- You are interested in ongoing research for your illness
Additional Pancreatitis Resources
National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse
National Pancreas Foundation
American Gastroenterological Association
American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy