Pancreatitis is inflammation (swelling) of the pancreas. It can happen over a short period of time (acute) or over many years (chronic). Pancreatitis occurs when the enzymes become activated while still in the pancreas, which irritates the cells and causes inflammation. Repeated episodes of acute pancreatitis, it can become chronic. This is where there is damage to the pancreas causing chronic abdominal pain, and loss of function, which could lead to issues with digestion and diabetes.