Acute Hemorrhagic Pancreatitis Symptoms

Acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis is the sudden inflammation of the pancreas 1. This leads to death of pancreatic tissue and the formation of lesions, causing extensive bleeding. The pancreas is a digestive organ behind the stomach that secretes essential enzymes needed for the digestion of certain foods, including fats, carbohydrates and proteins. During an episode of acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis, several symptoms relating to digestion and abdomen may occur 1.

Abdominal Pain

One of the hallmark symptoms of acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis is abdominal pain--particularly in the area of the pancreas, the upper middle or left side of the abdomen, explains MedlinePlus 1. The pain often increases in severity, turning into a constant pain that lasts for several days. The pain often worsens in the few minutes after eating or drinking--especially if the meal contains high amounts of fat or is accompanied by large amounts of alcohol, explains an article published in the July 2000 issue of American Family Physician. Lying down flat on the back often makes the pain worse. In severe cases, the pain can spread to the side, back or lower left shoulder.

Flu-Like Symptoms

An episode of acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis often causes severe flu-like symptoms 1. Nausea and vomiting are frequent symptoms, occurring in approximately 85 percent of patients with acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis, according to the Johns Hopkins Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology 12. A person may also experience a high fever, accompanied by sweating, a take on a generally ill-looking appearance.

Digestive Problems

In people with acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis, the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes 1. This can have a variety of effects on the digestive system. The patient may develop clay-colored stools, reports MedlinePlus. Hiccups and indigestion are also frequent symptoms. A feeling of abdominal fullness and gaseous bloating may also develop. Another possible symptom is jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Severe Complications

More severe symptoms may also develop in a person with acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis--including confusion, difficulty breathing, respiratory failure or coma, the John Hopkins Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology explains 12. Kidney failure can also result from acute hemorrhagic pancreatitis, which may require kidney dialysis, according to the Medical University of South Caroline Digestive Disease Center 1. The hemorrhaging pancreas can also leak harsh digestive enzymes into the bloodstream or body cavity, which can damage other internal organs such as the heart and lungs.