Does abdominal ultrasound treat pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. Ultrasound can examine the gallbladder for stones and assess the bile ducts, which may help clinicians look for a cause of the inflammation. The pancreas can be partly hidden by bowel gas, so an ultrasound may not answer every question. Diagnosis and severity are assessed using your symptoms, examination, blood tests, and other imaging when needed.

If pancreatitis is suspected, arrange prompt medical assessment rather than waiting for an ultrasound to provide treatment. Care may include monitoring, fluids, pain and nausea control, and treatment of the underlying cause. Follow instructions about eating, drinking, and medicines from the treating team, especially if abdominal pain or vomiting is significant.

Seek urgent care for severe or worsening upper abdominal pain, pain spreading to the back, repeated vomiting, fever, yellow skin or eyes, faintness, confusion, or difficulty breathing. These symptoms can accompany a serious abdominal illness and need assessment without delay.

Ask what the ultrasound is looking for, whether gallstones or bile-duct changes were seen, which tests assess severity, and when you should return for worsening symptoms.