What type of Pancreatitis are you experiencing?

There are three types of pancreatitis.  Each variation of pancreatitis displays specific symptoms and treatment options. 

Learn more about the 
types of the Pancreatitis

• Acute Pancreatitis

• Chronic Pancreatitis

• Hereditary Pancreatitis

Why do you have a pancreas?

Your pancreas is a large gland behind your stomach and close to your duodenum. The pancreas secretes powerful digestive enzymes that enter the small intestine through a duct. These enzymes help you digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. The pancreas also releases the hormones insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream. These hormones play an important part in metabolizing sugar.  Pancreatitis is a rare disease in which the pancreas becomes inflamed. Damage to the gland occurs when digestive enzymes are activated and begin attacking the pancreas. 

Types Of Pancreatitis

Acute Pancreatitis

Sudden inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas abruptly becomes inflamed and then gets better. Some people have more than one attack but recover fully after each one. Learn more about Acute Pancreatitis »

Chronic Pancreatitis

A form of pancreatitis in which there is persistent inflammation of the pancreas. The pancreas is weakened and is unable to produce the enzymes needed to digest food.  Learn more about Chronic Pancreatitis »

Hereditary Pancreatitis

In some cases, pancreatitis is related to inherited abnormalities of the pancreas or the intestine.  Acute recurrent attacks of pancreatitis early in life (under 30) can often progress to chronic pancreatitis.  Recent research demonstrates that there are many other familial causes of pancreatitis and genetic testing can be a valuable tool.  Learn more about hereditary pancreatitis »