Pancreatitis symptoms

Severe upper abdominal pain radiating to the back, with nausea, can indicate pancreatitis. This usually needs ER evaluation; a provider can help with follow-up online.

Also called: pancreas pain · epigastric pain · amylase lipase

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ikechukwu Ogbu, MD
MD · Board-Certified, Internal Medicine · Last reviewed

Go to the ER if you have:

  • Severe steady upper-abdominal pain radiating to the back
  • Persistent vomiting with pain
  • Fever, rapid heart rate, or confusion

What pancreatitis symptoms could be

The most common causes a clinician considers. This isn't a diagnosis — it's the differential a provider works through with you.

Abdominal pain

Abdominal pain is one of the more common causes of pancreatitis symptoms. A provider can confirm with the right history, exam, or labs — and start treatment the same day when appropriate.

Nausea and vomiting

Nausea and vomiting is one of the more common causes of pancreatitis symptoms. A provider can confirm with the right history, exam, or labs — and start treatment the same day when appropriate.

GERD / acid reflux

GERD / acid reflux is one of the more common causes of pancreatitis symptoms. A provider can confirm with the right history, exam, or labs — and start treatment the same day when appropriate.

Typical workup

What a clinician usually orders or asks about when someone presents with pancreatitis symptoms.

  • Focused history: timing, triggers, severity, and prior treatments related to "pancreatitis symptoms"
  • Targeted physical exam of the involved system
  • Rule-in / rule-out workup for the most likely causes: Abdominal pain, Nausea and vomiting, GERD / acid reflux
  • Labs, imaging, or referral only when the answer will change management

When to see a clinician

  • Symptoms have lasted more than a few days without improving, or keep coming back
  • You're not sure if this needs antibiotics, prescription treatment, or watchful waiting
  • You have a chronic condition (diabetes, heart disease, immunocompromised) that raises the stakes
  • You want a same-day plan without a trip to urgent care

Common questions