Could one have pancreatitis with only feeling sporadic, moderate left-sided pain when eating or distended? most of the time no pain is present.

Unlikely.: The pain of pancreatitis is usually central upper belly and quite severe. It does not come and go, and is often accompanied by significant nausea and vomiting. What you describe does not sound pancreas related. Please see a primary doctor for evaluation, which may include blood tests, a thorough physics exam, and possibly imaging (ultrasound or CT) to pinpoint the cause of the problem.