The main times to worry about pancreatitis are when experiencing severe, persistent upper abdominal pain (often spreading to the back), especially if accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever, rapid heartbeat, or jaundice. These symptoms may indicate acute pancreatitis, which can be life-threatening and requires urgent medical attention. Chronic pancreatitis pain that worsens suddenly or causes unintended weight loss and oily stools also warrants medical evaluation. If the abdominal pain is so severe that one cannot find a comfortable position or if symptoms like fever and rapid heartbeat develop, immediate emergency care is necessary.

When to seek medical help for pancreatitis:

• Sudden, severe abdominal pain, especially if spreading to the back
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever or chills
• Rapid heartbeat
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Inability to manage pain or find relief
• Unintended weight loss and oily stools in chronic cases

These signs may indicate serious inflammation, infection, or complications such as blockage in the pancreas or gallbladder, and early treatment is crucial to prevent severe outcomes or death. If symptoms mimic heart attack signs, urgent emergency care is also critical. In summary, immediate medical attention is needed for sudden severe symptoms, and ongoing symptoms in chronic pancreatitis should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to manage complications properly.