Yes, pancreatitis can cause sudden death in rare cases.
About 4 out of 5 cases of acute pancreatitis improve quickly and don’t cause any serious further problems. However, 1 in 5 cases are severe and can result in life-threatening complications, such as multiple organ failure.
In severe cases where complications develop, there’s a high risk of the condition being fatal. In England, just over 1,000 people die from acute pancreatitis every year. If a person survives the effects of severe acute pancreatitis, it’s likely to be several weeks or months before they’re well enough to leave hospital.
While the vast majority of people with pancreatitis recover with proper treatment, there is a small risk that the condition could lead to sudden death.
Pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas, a small organ located behind the stomach, becomes inflamed. This can be a very serious and potentially life-threatening condition, particularly if the inflammation is severe and spreads to surrounding organs. In some cases, pancreatitis can lead to organ failure and sock, which can be fatal.
If you are experiencing symptoms of pancreatitis, it is important to seek medical attention right away to ensure that the condition is properly treated.