Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Complications of Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)
EPI is a condition where the pancreas are unable to create enough digestive enzymes often leading to malnutrition and many other health conditions.
People with EPI can’t absorb enough fats, proteins and carbohydrates from foods. This problem is called malabsorption. Your body needs these nutrients for energy and to maintain organ function. Malabsorption of nutrients can lead to malnutrition.
Signs of malnutrition include:
- Dry skin, brittle nails and hair loss.
- Depression.
- Edema (tissue swelling).
- Fatigue or dizziness
- Feeling cold all the time.
- Irritability.
- Memory and concentration issues.
- Muscle loss.
If left untreated, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) can lead to feeling malnourished, fatigued and weak. This is due to the poor absorption of vitamins and nutrients. Eventually, it can lead to thinning bones (osteoporosis) or anemia (a deficiency of red blood cells).
