Can Pancreatitis Cause Back Pain?

Pancreatitis can indeed cause pain that radiates to the back, a phenomenon known as referred pain. This discomfort typically spreads in a band-like pattern across the lower back and may be alleviated when the patient assumes a curled-up position with knees drawn toward the chest.

In addition to back pain, the primary symptom of pancreatitis is persistent upper abdominal pain. This pain is often described as dull, sharp, stabbing, or cramping, and may intensify in episodes. Unlike typical stomachaches, this pain tends to worsen after eating and is not easily relieved by standard gastrointestinal antispasmodic medications.

It's also worth noting that other conditions such as gallstones can cause similar referred pain, but gastrointestinal issues like peptic ulcers, acute or chronic gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) typically do not result in back pain.

If someone experiences unexplained back pain and suspects pancreatitis, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention. Healthcare providers may recommend diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of acute pancreatitis. If diagnosed, hospitalization is often necessary to manage the condition effectively and prevent complications.