Pancreatic insufficiency occurs when your pancreas doesn't produce enough digestive enzymes to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Without these enzymes, your body struggles to absorb vital nutrients. This condition is also known as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI).
Early recognition of symptoms can help prevent complications. Look for signs like:
Several health issues and factors can lead to pancreatic insufficiency:
At GastroDoxs in Houston, we combine the latest diagnostics with personalized, compassionate care to effectively manage pancreatic insufficiency. From tailored enzyme replacement plans to nutritional guidance and ongoing support, our expert team is dedicated to helping you restore proper digestion, regain energy, and improve your quality of life. Ready to feel better and reclaim your health? Book your appointment today with our Houston specialists and take the first step toward digestive wellness.
We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Pancreatic insufficiency can arise from chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic surgery, diabetes, or certain medications that impair the pancreas's ability to produce digestive enzymes.
Diagnosis usually involves stool tests to measure fat content, imaging studies such as CT or MRI to evaluate the pancreas, and blood panels to assess nutritional status and enzyme levels.
A balanced, low-fat diet combined with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) taken with meals helps improve digestion and nutrient absorption.
While there's no permanent cure, long-term enzyme replacement and dietary management effectively control symptoms and support healthy digestion.
Always consult your doctor first; most patients require prescription-strength PERT to ensure proper dosing and effectiveness.
Enzyme pills should be taken with every meal and snack. Your physician will tailor the dose based on the size and fat content of each meal.
Yes. Fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies (A, D, E, and K) are common, so your doctor may recommend supplementation to maintain optimal nutrition.
With appropriate enzyme replacement, dietary adjustments, and medical follow-up, many patients successfully regain weight and improve their energy levels.
Initially, follow-ups are usually every 4-6 weeks to adjust enzyme doses. Once stable, visits may be spaced every 6-12 months.
The ICD-10 code for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is K90.4, used for medical records and insurance claims.
