Biliary Obstruction in Louisiana
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Find a ProviderWhat is a biliary obstruction?
The human biliary system consists of a series of ducts that function to move bile from the liver to your gallbladder, and then to your small bowel in an effort to aid the digestion of food within the small bowel. A biliary obstruction is when one of these aforementioned ducts becomes blocked and fails to permit the bile to pass as needed all throughout the biliary system. A biliary obstruction is commonly called a bile duct obstruction, the reason being because the most common blockages occur in the bile duct separating the gallbladder and the liver. If you are looking for medical treatment for a biliary obstruction in Louisiana, our team is ready to help. Please contact our group of gastroenterologists at GastroGroup & Endocenter to let us give you more details about this condition and the ways in which it can be treated.
What are the symptoms of a biliary obstruction?
Biliary obstruction in Louisiana individuals is not uncommon and can typically be treated by a GI specialist. Some of the symptoms of a bile duct obstruction are:
- Jaundice
- Itching
- Dark urine
- Pale or light-colored stools
- Stomach pain
- Fever and night sweats
- Vomiting and nausea
- Abnormal loss of weight or appetite
If you’ve been suffering from any combination of the symptoms listed above, please contact GastroGroup & Endocenter to request a consultation.
What causes of a bile duct or biliary obstruction?
A common culprit of a biliary obstruction is gallstones. Gallstones can grow anytime the level of cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile is too high. These solid particulates are carried through the bile ducts and hinder the movement of bile.
Other causes of a bile duct obstruction can include:
- Cysts of the common bile duct
- Bile duct inflammation
- Injury from other surgeries
- Tumors that have spread to the bile ducts
- Parasites
What does it mean if my bile duct is blocked?
In the case of biliary obstruction, the bile is stopped from carrying out its role in breaking down foods. Bile is secreted by the liver to dissolve fats and allow them to be absorbed by the body. It also helps in clearing waste out of the body. In the absence of treatment, a bile duct blockage could progress to a serious, life-threatening disease of the liver. Please call GastroGroup & Endocenter promptly if you or a member of your family are concerned that you could have a bile duct blockage.
What is the typical treatment for a biliary obstruction?
A large percentage of biliary obstructions can be removed by using an endoscope during a procedure called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In extreme, or severe cases, surgery may be required to clear the blockage and sometimes remove the gallbladder. If the cause of the obstruction is due to cancer, then, most likely, the ducts will need to be drained and stretched.
Biliary Obstruction FAQs
Is biliary obstruction common?
Biliary obstruction, while not exceedingly common, occurs frequently enough to be well-recognized, especially among individuals with gallbladder disease — gallstones being the most common cause — and those with a history of pancreatic or liver diseases.
How can biliary obstruction be prevented?
Prevention of biliary obstruction often involves managing risk factors such as maintaining a healthy weight, managing cholesterol levels, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption to prevent gallstone formation. Regular medical checkups can also help detect conditions that might lead to biliary obstruction before they become severe.
What lifestyle changes can help manage biliary obstruction?
After treatment for biliary obstruction, adopting certain lifestyle changes can help prevent recurrence and support overall liver health. These include adopting a balanced diet low in saturated fats and rich in fiber, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol. It's also important to stay hydrated and follow any specific dietary guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.
Quality care for your health
If you or a loved one are noticing dark urine or pale stools, or believe you may have a biliary blockage, please connect with GastroGroup & Endocenter to reserve an appointment with one of our gastroenterologists at your earliest convenience. We proudly offer treatment for bile duct obstruction in Louisiana and look forward to providing you with the high-quality care you need.
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