Pancreatic insufficiency occurs when your pancreas doesn't produce enough digestive enzymes-lipase, amylase, and proteases-to break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. Without these enzymes, your body can't absorb nutrients properly. This condition is also known as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and is coded as ICD-10 K86.8. A simple stool test, such as fecal elastase, can confirm the diagnosis.
Symptoms often start subtly and can include:
Several factors can impair enzyme production or delivery:
Don't let pancreatic insufficiency keep you from enjoying your meals. At GastroDoxs in Cypress, our expert team offers personalized enzyme therapy, nutritional guidance, and ongoing support to help you absorb nutrients and feel your best. Schedule your consultation now and take the first step toward better digestion and improved quality of life.
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.
Early signs often include mild bloating, excess gas, stomach cramps, and unplanned weight loss as the body struggles to absorb nutrients.
No. A definitive diagnosis requires clinical tests-stool elastase measurements and blood work-to assess enzyme output and nutrient levels.
Yes. Blood tests can evaluate vitamin levels (A, D, E, K) and other markers of nutrient absorption and pancreatic function.
Pancrelipase enzyme supplements (e.g., Creon, Zenpep) taken with every meal are the standard therapy to replace missing digestive enzymes.
Pancreatic insufficiency itself does not cause cancer, though chronic pancreatitis-which can lead to insufficiency-may slightly elevate pancreatic cancer risk.
While no natural cure exists, a balanced low-fat diet, small frequent meals, and prescribed enzyme supplements offer the best support.
Many patients notice symptom relief within a few days of starting enzyme therapy; full nutritional improvement can take several weeks of consistent treatment.
Yes. Children-especially those with cystic fibrosis-often experience enzyme deficiency and require pediatric enzyme replacement and nutritional support.
Surgery is only indicated if a tumor, stricture, or obstruction is causing the insufficiency. Most cases are managed medically.
Contact GastroDoxs in Cypress or search online for "Pancreatic Insufficiency specialist near Cypress" to schedule an evaluation with our expert team.
