Pancreatic Insufficiency

Pancreatic Insufficiency

The pancreas is an important intra-abdominal organ, which lies behind the stomach and adjacent to the first part of the small intestine. It is about six inches long and has a head and a tail. Its most important functions are to produce hormones that help regulate blood sugar levels and pancreatic juices that aid in digestion. These are known as its endocrine and exocrine functions, respectively.

Pancreatic insufficiency occurs when the exocrine function is deficient, so that the pancreas does not produce enough pancreatic enzymes that help digest food.

Part 1: What Is Pancreatic Insufficiency?

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is a condition that occurs when your pancreas cannot make enough enzymes the body needs to

• Endoscopic ultrasound, which uses sound waves to make images of your digestive system.

Genetic testing may also be recommended to see if you have genes responsible for certain conditions that can lead to pancreatic insufficiency.

Part 4: How to Treat Pancreatic Insufficiency

Fortunately, pancreatic insufficiency is treatable. One option for treatment consists of replacing pancreatic enzymes with supplements that aid in digestion. This type of treatment helps improve absorption and prevent vitamin deficiencies. It also improves weight gain. Other options include dietary modifications and pancreatic cell transplantation.

Medical Treatment

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy is the main treatment used for pancreatic insufficiency. It consists of regular intake of enzyme pills to replace deficient enzymes. These enzymes break down food for easy digestion and absorption. They are taken during meals for best results.

You may also need to take antacids to prevent premature break down of the pancreatic enzymes in the stomach before they start to work.

FDA-approved pancreatic enzymes that you can obtain with a doctor’s prescription include the

Some people who have milder forms of the disease can reduce their symptoms just by eating a healthy, low-fat diet.

For severe pancreatic insufficiency, vitamin supplements are necessary part of your treatment to treat vitamin deficiencies.

You may also need medication to treat abdominal pain. Doctors usually advise taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) like ibuprofen, but if this does not bring relief, stronger pain relievers, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone may be prescribed.

Home Remedies

It is important for you to take care of yourself by modifying your lifestyle to prevent symptoms. This includes:

• Choosing the right types of food with the help of a dietitian. This will help prevent symptoms of malabsorption and at the same time provide enough energy and nutrition your body needs.

• Eating frequent small meals rather than big meals to improve digestion.

• Avoiding alcohol, which can damage your pancreas over time and make it more difficult for your body to absorb fat.

• Taking vitamins A, D, E, and K to replace those that your system is not able to absorb from the diet. Consult your doctor before taking