Pancreatitis: When To Call A Doctor
Content provided by Healthwise
When To Call a Doctor
Call your doctor immediately if you have severe belly (abdominal) pain with vomiting that does not go away after a few hours, or mild to moderate pain that does not improve with home treatment after a couple of days. These symptoms may be caused by pancreatitis.
Watchful Waiting
Pancreatitis can be a severe, potentially life-threatening illness. It is not appropriate to take a wait-and-see approach, which is called watchful waiting, if you have severe pain in the upper area 
of the abdomen that does not go away in a few hours.
Who To See
The following health professionals can diagnose and treat pancreatitis:
- Family medicine physician
- Internist
- Gastroenterologist (specialist in diseases of the digestive system)
- Nurse practitioner
- Physician assistant
- Surgeon
To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.
| Last updated: | July 02, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Monica Rhodes |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine, Brent Shoji, MD - General Surgery |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.
Search
Related Articles
Where Does it Hurt?
If you're experiencing aches and pains we can help you find answers. Find out what your symptoms mean for your health.
