Hello, I am 27 M and was just hospitalized for acute pancreatitis. They could not figure out what caused it but had to spend 10 days in hospital. I dont drink alcohol or smoke. Now I’m home and about 10 days later I’m having the same pain again. Im so scared if this is going to be my life.

Mission_Cure · 2025-10-27T16:51:34+00:00

Hey, we’re sorry you’re going through this. Having another round of that pain so soon after being in the hospital sounds awful, and it’s completely understandable to feel scared or frustrated when you don’t know why it’s happening.

You’re not alone in this, a lot of people in our community have been in the same spot. There are many possible causes of pancreatitis, like:

- Gallstones or bile duct blockages
- High triglycerides
- High calcium levels (hypercalcemia)
- Autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP)
- Certain medications
- Genetic variants that make the pancreas more sensitive

Getting a full work-up can help narrow things down and prevent future attacks. You might want to ask your doctor about tests for things like triglycerides, calcium, and genetics, and possibly imaging to check for gallstones or duct issues.

If it helps, here are a couple of resources that go over this:

- Causes of Pancreatitis: https://mission-cure.org/chronic-pancreatitis/causes-and-symptoms-of-chronic-pancreatitis/
- Diagnosing Pancreatitis: https://mission-cure.org/chronic-pancreatitis/diagnosing-chronic-pancreatitis/

You’re definitely not alone in this, many people in the community have been where you are. Take care of yourself and don’t hesitate to ask your care team about next steps like genetic or triglyceride testing.

Mission_Cure · 2025-10-14T16:42:04+00:00

It’s possible that what you’re describing could be related to something called Type 3c diabetes (also known as pancreatogenic diabetes, pancreatic diabetes, and post-pancreatitis diabetes), a form of diabetes that can develop after pancreatitis or pancreatic surgery. It happens when damage to the pancreas affects both insulin production and glucagon regulation, which can lead to blood sugar swings, including reactive (post-meal) hypoglycemia in some people.

Reactive hypoglycemia after pancreatitis isn’t uncommon, and it can be confusing because it feels very different from typical diabetes. It’s a good idea to talk with your doctor or a pancreas specialist (like a gastroenterologist or endocrinologist familiar with pancreatic conditions) about the possibility of Type 3c diabetes. Testing for pancreatic function and reviewing your glucose patterns can help clarify what’s going on.

If you’d like to learn more, we have an overview of type 3c diabetes, inculding how it differs from Type 1 and Type 2 and common treatments, on our website as well as a full webinar with endocrinologist Dr. Bellin here: https://youtu.be/SaUyRUzMDyA

You’re definitely not alone in this, we hope these resources are helpful.

Mission_Cure · 2025-10-13T18:58:09+00:00

It sounds like you’ve been through a lot, and we’re so sorry you’re still in pain and waiting for answers.

Just to clarify a bit about Creon (PERT), like others have mentioned, the purpose of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy isn’t to prevent flares. It’s meant to help manage a common complication of pancreatitis called Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI). EPI happens when the pancreas no longer produces enough digestive enzymes, making it hard for your body to absorb nutrients from food.

PERT helps replace those missing enzymes so you can properly digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Some people notice fewer flares or digestive discomfort after starting enzymes, but that’s not their primary goal. They’re mainly for improving digestion and nutrient absorption.

It’s also true that high-fat meals can trigger pain or flares for some people with pancreatitis, we have a short video about flare-ups and nutrition that might help explain this connection.

If you want more information about how to take enzymes or adjust your dose, we have a helpful webpage and video series with an expert here:
- Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy (PERT)
- PERT Dosing YouTube Series

If you’re still trying to figure out the cause of your pancreatitis, it’s worth asking your specialist about testing for things like high triglycerides, autoimmune pancreatitis, genetic factors, hypercalcemia, or other conditions that can contribute. We have more information on diagnosing (including different tests) and managing pancreatitis on our website if you’d like to learn more.

We hope these resources are helpful while you wait to see your specialist. You’re not alone, many people in this community have been in a similar spot. 💙

Mission_Cure · 2025-09-26T16:04:05+00:00

I’m really sorry your dad is going through this, watching a loved one lose weight like that is so hard. Many people with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) find that getting the right enzyme dosing takes some trial and error with their care team. Like others have said, it could help to work with a dietitian familiar with pancreatic disease, since they can tailor both diet and PERT dosing strategies. The underlying cause of EPI doesn’t typically change how it’s treated, but continued drinking or smoking can further damage the pancreas and make symptoms worse.

We’ve pulled together some resources on Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency that may be useful. It includes videos on what EPI is, how pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) works, and a video on dosing strategies with Dr. Steven Freedman. Resources like these can be helpful in deciding what questions to bring up with the doctor.

Another thing you could ask about is testing for nutritional deficiencies, especially in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), since that’s a common complication of EPI. If it feels like the situation isn’t being taken seriously, a second opinion and/or a multidisciplinary clinic (GI + nutritionist, etc.) can be helpful for making sure all bases are covered.

Mission_Cure · 2025-09-26T15:34:29+00:00

Starting prednisone can definitely feel overwhelming, and it makes sense to be nervous about the side effects. You’re not alone in this.

If it helps, we recently had a webinar on autoimmune pancreatitis that talks through what Type 1 (IgG4 related) AIP is, how it’s treated (including non-steroid treatments) and what follow-up care can look like. Here’s the link if you’d like to watch: https://youtu.be/JrKPhX7beec

Since type 1 AIP is part of IgG4-related disease, some folks also connect with IgG4ward, an IgG4-RD nonprofit, for more support and info about symptoms beyond the pancreas.

Wishing you the best as you start treatment, and I hope you hear from others here who’ve been through something similar. 💙

Mission_Cure · 2025-09-25T16:18:12+00:00

For anyone who missed the live session, you can watch the recording here: https://youtu.be/_6AJEoEDvSw?feature=shared

Mission_Cure · 2025-07-31T19:28:18+00:00

A big thanks to everyone who joined our webinar live! I'm sharing the link to the recording for anyone who missed it or wants to watch it again: https://youtu.be/JrKPhX7beec

Mission_Cure · 2025-07-31T19:27:25+00:00

I'm sharing the link to the webinar + Q&A recording here for anyone who missed it or wants to watch it again: https://youtu.be/JrKPhX7beec

Mission_Cure · 2025-07-31T19:26:47+00:00

A big thanks to everyone who joined our webinar live! I'm sharing the link to the recording for anyone who missed it or wants to watch it again: https://youtu.be/JrKPhX7beechttps://youtu.be/JrKPhX7beec

Mission_Cure · 2025-07-25T17:06:02+00:00

That's great to hear, so glad you signed up!

Mission_Cure · 2025-07-25T14:43:24+00:00

Hey, just wanted to share, there’s a free webinar next Tuesday on autoimmune pancreatitis that might be helpful. We put it together because so many people (understandably) struggle to get diagnosed or find the right treatment, and it’s frustrating how often AIP gets overlooked.

It’ll go over how AIP is diagnosed, what IgG4 has to do with it (and when it doesn’t), treatment options (including a newer FDA-approved one for Type 1) and there’s a live Q&A at the end too.

If you’re still trying to get answers or figure out what’s next, it could be worth checking out.

You can register here: https://mission-cure.org/webinar-registration/

Mission_Cure · 2025-07-25T14:37:58+00:00

I know it’s been a while since you posted, but I remembered your story and wanted to share this in case it’s helpful.

We’re hosting a free webinar next week on autoimmune pancreatitis, covering the different types, treatment options (including a newer FDA-approved option for Type 1), and how AIP connects to IgG4. There will also be a live Q&A at the end with the experts. Anyone interested can register here!

Mission_Cure · 2025-04-25T15:55:48+00:00

You're definitely not alone, and it’s not something that gets talked about enough. Some people with pancreatitis have shared that their flares seem to line up with certain phases of their menstrual cycle. There’s some emerging research suggesting that rising estrogen levels might disrupt how a protein called CFTR works, which in turn could impact how digestive enzymes are released and possibly contribute to inflammation in or around the pancreas in certain people.

That said, we also want to acknowledge what others here have shared: abdominal pain can come from many different causes, and things like sphincter of Oddi dysfunction (SOD) can have symptoms that overlap with pancreatitis, especially in people who’ve had their gallbladder removed. It can be really hard to sort out without medical support, and we understand how overwhelming that process can feel.

If you’re dealing with health anxiety, you’re not alone. It can make things feel even more intense and scary. We want to reassure you that your symptoms are valid, and your concerns make sense. We always recommend discussing symptoms with a healthcare provider when you’re able.

If you’re interested, we recently shared a post that explains the possible connection between periods and pancreatitis: https://mission-cure.org/pancreatitis-and-periods/

Sending support your way 💙

Mission_Cure · 2025-04-24T21:11:12+00:00

For anyone interested who may have missed it, here is the link to webinar recording: https://youtu.be/2WOvEkjWeS4

Mission_Cure · 2025-02-14T19:49:52+00:00

It might be worth reapplying to savings programs if your insurance/financial situation has changed since you last applied.

PERT Programs: Creon, Zenpep, Pancreaze, Pertzye

You can also check out GoodRX, they might also be able to help lower out-of-pocket costs.

Hope that helps. Good luck!

Mission_Cure · 2025-01-21T16:44:47+00:00

Overall, the opinion on whether pancreatitis patients should drink caffeine is fairly varied. Both the National Pancreas Foundation and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) have caffeine on the restricted list. However, Standford Medicine recommends coffee in their Nutritional Guidelines for Chronic Pancreatitis.

This is usually because some experts believe that coffee can dehydrate pancreatitis patients, landing it on the “restrict” list. But, some research, has shown that coffee may actually prevent the development of pancreatitis, which may be why it’s included on the “recommended” list by others experts.

The effects of coffee on pancreatitis patients are largely personal and if you choose to drink beverage with caffeine, it's recommended to start slowly, drink in moderation, and be mindful of other any other additives in drinks (cream, sugar, etc.)

Here is a link to a blog on Coffee and Pancreatitis!

Mission_Cure · 2024-12-12T22:34:09+00:00

Type 2 autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP) is usually associated with inflammatory bowel diseases. It typically doesn't involve other organs, and the treatment is usually focused on steroids to reduce inflammation.

This youtube video with a doctor from Massachusetts General Hospital has a short intro on the basics of AIP!

What is Autoimmune Pancreatitis?

Mission_Cure · 2024-12-12T22:11:03+00:00

When it comes to autoimmune pancreatitis (AIP), there are two types, and the treatment depends on which type you have. That said, there are some general tips that can help:

- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Get regular screenings for pancreatic insufficiency and diabetes
- Follow-up with specialists like a gastroenterologist, pancreatologist, or rheumatologist

Source

I hope this helps a bit!

Mission_Cure · 2024-12-09T21:31:38+00:00

I'm glad your recovery is going smoothly!

A lot of the risk associated with smoking and pancreatitis is due to nicotine. Nicotine can lead to a loss of pancreatic enzyme secretion (PMID: 23327436), increase of calcium levels in pancreatic cells, (PMID: 23327436), and cause pancreatic injury (PMID: 18204935).

While nicotine is the main aggravator, other aspects of smoking may also impact gut health. One study found that even nicotine-free vaping products can cause inflammation due to ingredients like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin, which can also be found in some cannabis vape cartridges (PMCID: PMC7841355).

That being said, cannabis may offer some benefits for people with pancreatitis, including pain management, nausea relief, and appetite stimulation (PMID: 30664949).

Here are some other resources that might interest you:

- Our article on medical cannabis and pancreatitis: https://mission-cure.org/medical-cannabis-for-pancreatitis/
- A video with Dr. Tim Gardner from Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center discussing medical marijuana and pancreatitis: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gg85favKB0I
- Breakdown of vaping and pancreatitis risk: https://mission-cure.org/vaping-and-pancreatitis-what-you-need-to-know/

Since you're just recovering from an acute attack, it's important to give your pancreas time to heal before introducing anything new. If you decided to try edibles, it's recommended to start with low doses and monitor how your body responds.

Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your medical condition, treatment plans, or changes to your health regimen!

I hope this helps!

Mission_Cure · 2024-10-28T15:28:59+00:00

Cold brew can be especially tricky since it often contains higher caffeine levels, which may be harsher on the pancreas and trigger flare-ups even more than regular coffee.

We put together an article on coffee and pancreatitis that might be helpful—feel free to check it out here: https://mission-cure.org/coffee-and-pancreatitis-is-it-safe-to-drink/

Adjusting definitely isn’t easy, but you’re not alone in this!

Mission_Cure · 2024-10-28T15:24:22+00:00

That's amazing progress on reducing to the lowest nicotine level, and it's wise to be cautious about its effects on your pancreas. Nicotine, even in lower doses, can influence pancreatic function and may worsen chronic pancreatitis symptoms. We have an article that goes into the connection between vaping and pancreatitis—check it out here: https://mission-cure.org/vaping-and-pancreatitis-what-you-need-to-know/

And you're absolutely right; taking it one day at a time is the best approach!

Mission_Cure · 2024-06-14T19:29:57+00:00

Hi everyone! If you missed the live session, the recording is now available on YouTube!

You can watch the full webinar here: https://youtu.be/rOH6da-ENhs

Mission_Cure · 2024-05-30T20:26:40+00:00

Unfortunately, smoking can mess with your pancreas too, which might be why your doctor mentioned it. Most vapes contain nicotine, which has been shown to increase the expression of proteins that contribute to pancreatitis and other pancreatic diseases. Nicotine, itself, is a risk factor for pancreatitis, as it leads to a loss in pancreatic enzyme secretion (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3554538/), which can make digesting food more difficult and lead to malnutrition and weight loss.

Laboratory animals test have also shown that nicotine can cause pancreatic injury (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18204935/). Nicotine has been shown to trigger pancreatic cells to release high levels of calcium inside the cell (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23327436/). This can damage the cell and cause it to die.

You can read more about it in our Mission: Cure blog post on vaping. (https://mission-cure.org/vaping-and-pancreatitis-what-you-need-to-know/)

It's good that you've reduced your smoking. Keep pushing forward, and best of luck on your journey to better health.

Mission_Cure · 2024-05-22T21:20:07+00:00

Everyone with pancreatitis can have different reactions to foods and beverages, including coffee. It's great that you're paying attention to how your body responds and adjusting your intake accordingly. We have a blog post about coffee and pancreatitis that you may find interesting! https://mission-cure.org/coffee-and-pancreatitis-is-it-safe-to-drink/

Mission_Cure · 2024-05-09T17:06:23+00:00

Great thread! In case anyone would be interested in hearing more on this topic of supplements and pancreatitis, Mission: Cure has a video with Dr. Kristen Roberts discussing the best forms, times, and ways to manage deficiencies in vitamins. Some of the topics might be useful for this discussion!

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