HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Pancreatitis
What Increases Your Risk
Several factors can increase your risk of pancreatitis, including:
- Reference Gallstones Opens New Window. A small gallstone can move far enough into the bile duct to block the flow of pancreatic enzymes into the small intestine.
- Reference Alcohol abuse Opens New Window. The amount needed to cause pancreatitis is not known. Alcohol tolerance varies from one person to another. Moderate consumption is considered no more than 2 Reference alcoholic beverages Opens New Window a day for men and 1 a day for women and older people.
- A high level of fat (Reference triglycerides Opens New Window) in the blood.
- Taking certain Reference medicines, including estrogen therapy and some antibiotics.
- Structural problems of the pancreas or the bile and pancreatic ducts, especially a condition in which the pancreas is divided and has two main ducts (pancreas divisum).
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference October 31, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
