CAN PANCREATITIS CAUSE SHOULDER PAIN?

We all know that knowledge is power – and when it comes to your health, it’s best to heed these wise words. To help you learn more about the question “Can pancreatitis cause shoulder pain?” and its symptoms, the team at BE THE CHANGE WELLNESS is here to provide some helpful information.

What is Acute Pancreatitis?

Acute pancreatitis is the inflammation of your pancreas, an organ that helps to digest food. The pancreas also needs to talk to the Gallbladder and is responsible to creating lipase – the digestive enzyme to help break down fat. Without this communication, the pancreas will become stressed. Those at higher risk are those who have had their gallbladder removed!

Can Pancreatitis Cause In My Shoulder Pain?

Yes. Despite its location behind the stomach and near the small intestine, your pancreas can cause pain in other parts of the body when it becomes inflamed. In fact, those suffering from acute pancreatitis may experience sudden pain in their upper abdomen that often radiates to the back – commonly the left shoulder blade. Pain may increase after eating or drinking, especially fatty foods.

Common Symptoms of Pancreatitis

In addition to abdominal and shoulder pains, other symptoms of pancreatitis include:

• Fever
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Sweating
• Jaundice
• Diarrhea or oily stools
• Bloating
• High blood sugar
• Weight loss
• Pseudocysts (sacs of fluid in the pancreas) that can cause infection or internal bleeding
• Increased risk of diabetes or kidney failure
• Malnutrition
• Pancreatitis can also be an early sign of pancreatic cancer. 

Keep in mind that some people stop experiencing pain because their pancreas has stopped producing digestive enzymes. This does not mean that you should ignore prior symptoms.