Pancreatitis can be painful—learn what it feels like.
Pancreatitis is a term that is used to define pancreatic inflammation, an uncomfortable development in the body. Before being diagnosed with this medical condition, many people find that they experience a collection of symptoms. One common symptom is pain. In this article, we will discuss what that looks like and how to identify this unique source of pain.
Pancreatitis: What to Expect
Your pancreas is an important organ that plays a key role in keeping you healthy. Since this is the case, when it is inflamed, your body will generally let you know that something has happened. The most common way this shows itself is as pain. Let’s discuss what pancreatitis pain feels like.
The Pain
At the first onset, most people experience a significant dull pain with pancreatitis. The pain will feel fairly deep, often being paired with an uncomfortable ache that seems to linger. While it is possible for the pain to disappear for periods of time, it generally remains fairly consistent, with some experiences making it worse.
The Location
Although pain anywhere is uncomfortable, the pain associated with pancreatitis also has a fairly specific location. The pain will often be experienced at the top of the stomach to begin with, but it is entirely possible for the pain to spread to the lower back, or even as far up as the upper back.
The Build
While pancreatitis pain can be unpleasant from the start, the worst part about it for most people is that it builds. When left untreated, this pain will build and sharpen, expanding throughout the body in many cases. Unfortunately, what starts as a dull ache can turn into a significant and highly unpleasant type of pain down the line.
The Contributing Factors
With pancreatitis, certain actions can make the condition feel worse, adding to your pain. Most people find that any impact on the stomach can worsen the pain, with actions like eating and drinking potentially worsening the level of pain that a person will feel. Certain foods can also be a factor that makes pancreatitis worse.
The Takeaway
Pain in the pancreas is unpleasant, and it can also be an indication of much larger problems. Any time you experience consistent pain in the body, it is always best to visit a doctor as soon as possible. Pain is an indication that something is wrong, and getting treatment is very important.
While these factors can be an indication of pancreatitis, it is important to know that other conditions can also cause similar types of pain. The best way to ensure that you are caring for your body and in good health is to schedule an appointment with a doctor. The sooner you act, the better, so remember to listen to your body!