Pancreatic insufficiency, also known as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), occurs when the pancreas doesn't produce or release enough digestive enzymes. These enzymes are essential for breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates so your body can absorb nutrients properly.
Symptoms often develop gradually. Look out for:
Several factors can lead to pancreatic insufficiency:
At GastroDoxs in Katy, we combine expert care, clear communication, and personalized treatment plans for pancreatic insufficiency. From fast, accurate diagnostics to tailored enzyme therapy and ongoing follow-up, our team is dedicated to helping you absorb vital nutrients and reclaim your strength. Don't wait to feel better book your appointment today and take the first step toward improved digestive health and lasting relief.
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 is diagnosed using stool tests (such as fecal elastase), blood work to check for nutrient deficiencies, and imaging studies (CT or MRI). In some cases, a direct pancreatic function test may also be performed.
Treatment includes pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) taken with each meal, dietary modifications (low-fat, high-protein diet), and supplementation of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
The most common cause is chronic pancreatitis. Other causes include cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer or surgery, blocked pancreatic ducts, and certain autoimmune conditions.
Early symptoms often include bloating, gas, and greasy or foul-smelling stools, all signs of poor fat digestion and malabsorption.
Enzyme medications are capsules containing digestive enzymes (lipase, protease, amylase). They are taken with meals to help break down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
Pancreatic insufficiency cannot be cured, but proper enzyme therapy and nutritional support allow most people to manage symptoms effectively and maintain good health.
In most cases, yes. Enzyme doses are adjusted over time based on weight, diet, and symptom relief, but lifelong therapy is typically required.
Yes. Children-especially those with cystic fibrosis-can develop exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and often need enzyme therapy and nutritional monitoring.
With effective treatment and regular follow-up, people with pancreatic insufficiency generally have a normal life expectancy.
Side effects are rare but may include mild gastrointestinal cramps if the enzyme dose is too high. Adjusting the dose usually resolves these symptoms.
