Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
What is Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency?
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is a condition in which the pancreas can't make enough enzymes for digestion. This means the body can't absorb some key nutrients from food properly, leading to various digestion-related problems like diarrhea, weight loss, and more.
What Causes EPI?
EPI is typically caused by damage to the pancreas, which can be due to various medical conditions or treatments. Common causes include chronic pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, pancreatic cancer, celiac disease, cancer treatments, certain medications, and certain surgical procedures.
Symptoms of EPI
Common symptoms of EPI include:
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Stomach pain
- Weight loss
- Frequent infections
- Fatigue
- Gas
- Lack of appetite
Diagnosis and Treatment
Your doctor will need to run a few tests to diagnose EPI, including blood tests and imaging scans. Once diagnosis is complete, your doctor will likely recommend treatments such as changes in diet, use of pancreatic enzymes, and vitamin and mineral supplementation. In some cases, medications or surgery may be recommended.
Conclusion
EPI is a condition in which the pancreas can't make enough enzymes for digestion, leading to various digestive symptoms like diarrhea, weight loss, bloating, and more. If you think you may have EPI, make sure to get it checked out by your doctor so you can start treatment and start feeling better.
