br What is Pancreatitis?br br Pancreatitis is a disease caused by the inflammation of the pancreas. There is acute pancreatitis, which is a sudden flare up, which can last for a few days or chronic pancreatitis, which can continue to occur for multiple years.br br The enzymes which help to break down and digest food, start to digest the pancreas itself - which is why it's very important to seek medical advise if you recognize, or suspect you are experiencing any of the following symptoms.