Pancreatitis is a condition that is caused due to inflammation of the pancreas. The central organ is a flat gland that is located in upper portion of the abdomen and sits behind the stomach. It produces enzymes that carry out the essential function of promoting digestion, thus regulating the way the body processes sugar.

Mild pancreatitis is not a very critical condition, and the disorder may pass off without or little treatment. However, in severe cases, the signs of pancreatitis can bring about several life-threatening complications in the system of the body. Pancreatitis may occur as acute or chronic. In case of acute pancreatitis, the signs and problem last for a few days or months, however, chronic pancreatitis occurs over many years.

The top 10 signs of pancreatitis may vary from the severeness of the illnesses. However, stomach pain, nausea, fever, vomiting, tenderness in the abdomen, weight loss, etc are popularly experienced signs of pancreatitis. Also, different individuals are bound to suffer from various types of signs and symptoms.

The signs of pancreatitis and the persistence of the condition can cause the following complications in the bodily system:

Infection – When the pancreas is inflamed, it is at a higher risk of getting affected by viruses and bacteria. Pancreatitis can make the organ vulnerable to severe infections that may require surgery to remove the affected portion or tissue.

Respiratory problems – The signs of pancreatitis can affect the function of the lungs in the body. This can have a severe impact on one’s breathing ability and lead to fluctuation of oxygen levels in the blood.

Diabetes – Pancreas regulate the production of sugar or glucose in the body. When the pancreas is inflamed, the insulin-producing cells get damaged, and the sugar levels increase. This condition has a grave effect on the way the body uses blood sugar and can cause diabetes, a chronic disease.

Malnutrition – One of the major signs of pancreatitis is lack of appetite, making consumption of food extremely difficult. Also, pancreatitis leads to the organ producing fewer enzymes that digest food by breaking down nutrients. Thus, the complications increase and result in malnourishment and weight loss.

Visiting the doctor as soon as one notices or feels any signs of pancreatitis will curtail the damage rendered on the body. A medical professional will be able to diagnose and treat the condition in due time.