Pancreatitis, chronic
Chronic pancreatitis is a condition where the pancreas becomes permanently damaged due to inflammation.
Repeated episodes of abdominal (tummy) pain are the most common symptom of chronic pancreatitis.
Chronic pancreatitis is often related to long-term alcohol consumption, although no cause is identified in up to 2 in every 10 cases.
Chronic pancreatitis can usually only be diagnosed by carrying out scans of the pancreas.
Treatment for chronic pancreatitis aims to help control the condition and reduce any symptoms.
The damage to your pancreas due to chronic pancreatitis means that further problems are relatively common.
Stephanie Atts was diagnosed with pancreatitis when she was 24. She has given up drinking, but the condition still causes her pain.