Pancreatitis is a condition in which the pancreas seems inflamed. The pancreas is a long, flat gland placed in the upper abdomen behind the stomach. The pancreas produces enzymes that aid digestion as well as hormone levels that regulate how your body practices sugar (glucose). Acute pancreatitis occurs when pancreatitis makes it appear instantly and lasts for days. Pancreatitis can also occur as chronic pancreatitis, which is pancreatitis that takes place over a long period. Mild cases of pancreatitis may resolve on their own, but severe instances can result in life-threatening health problems. Pancreatitis happens when digestive enzymes often get triggered while still in the pancreas, irritating and inflaming the pancreatic cells.