Pancreatic duct blockage: signs, causes, and what to do

If your pancreas duct is blocked, digestion and blood sugar can be affected fast. A blocked pancreatic duct often causes sharp belly pain, nausea, and vomiting. It can also trigger pancreatitis, an inflammation that needs quick attention. This page explains common causes, how doctors diagnose it, and straightforward treatment options.

Causes vary. Gallstones are the most common cause — small stones can pass from the gallbladder and lodge in the pancreatic duct. Chronic pancreatitis from long-term alcohol use or genetic conditions can scar and narrow the duct. Tumors, cysts, and strictures (scar tissue) can also block flow. Rare causes include pancreatic divisum or parasites.

Key symptoms to watch for

Pain is the main clue: sudden, severe pain in the upper abdomen that often radiates to the back. The pain may worsen after eating and last for hours or days. Other signs include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), pale greasy stools, unexplained weight loss, fever, and rapid heartbeat. If you have diabetes or sudden blood sugar swings, that can also point to pancreatic problems.

Diagnosis mixes history, labs, and imaging. Blood tests check for elevated enzymes like amylase and lipase. Liver tests and blood sugar help spot related issues. Ultrasound can find gallstones. CT scans show inflammation and complications. MRCP and ERCP are specialized imaging tests that directly visualize the duct — ERCP can also remove stones or place stents during the same procedure.

Treatment options that actually help

Treatment depends on the cause. If gallstones block the duct, doctors may remove stones with ERCP or perform gallbladder surgery to stop repeats. For strictures, a stent can keep the duct open for weeks or months. Chronic pancreatitis may need enzyme replacement, pain control, and lifestyle changes like stopping alcohol and adjusting diet. Tumors require evaluation for surgery, chemotherapy, or other targeted therapies.

Emergency care matters. Severe pancreatitis can cause organ failure, infection, or bleeding. Get to an ER if you have crushing upper belly pain, high fever, fainting, or trouble breathing. In the hospital, treatment focuses on fluids, pain control, and treating the underlying blockage.

Simple steps you can take now: avoid excessive alcohol, maintain a healthy weight, and get checked for gallstones if you have repeated belly pain. Ask your doctor about imaging tests if symptoms persist. If you’re prescribed pancreatic enzymes, take them with meals as directed to improve digestion.

Questions for your provider: What likely caused the blockage? Do I need ERCP or surgery? Will this affect my blood sugar long-term? These direct questions help guide faster care and prevent repeated attacks.

Follow-up is key: schedule a gastroenterology appointment if symptoms return or tests are abnormal. Ask for a nutrition plan to reduce fat intake and referrals to pain or diabetes specialists. Keep a symptom diary — note what you eat, pain timing, and bowel changes — to help your doctor. If insurance or costs are an issue, ask about financial counseling or clinics offering sliding-scale care.