Biliary Obstruction in Thibodaux, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is a biliary obstruction?
The biliary system is made up of a network of ducts that help to transport bile from your liver to the gallbladder, followed by the small intestine in order to help you digest food within your small intestine. A biliary obstruction occurs when one or more of these ducts becomes blocked and does not allow the bile to move freely throughout your biliary system. A biliary obstruction is commonly referred to as a bile duct obstruction because one of the most common places the obstructions occur is in the bile duct separating the gallbladder and the liver. If you are looking for medical assistance for a biliary obstruction in Thibodaux, LA, our providers are here to help. Please contact our team of GI providers at your nearest Digestive Health Center location to learn more about this condition and the ways in which it can be treated.
What are some of the symptoms of a biliary obstruction?
Bile duct obstructions in Thibodaux, LA patients are not unusual and can typically be treated by a GI specialist. The most common symptoms of biliary obstructions are:
- Jaundice
- Itching
- Dark-colored urine
- Pale or light-colored stools
- Stomach pain
- Night sweats and fever
- Vomiting and nausea
- Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
What causes a biliary obstruction?
The most common cause of biliary obstructions are hard deposits called gallstones. Gallstones may develop anytime the level of bilirubin or cholesterol in the bile is too high. These solid particles can then be carried into the bile ducts and obstruct the movement of bile.
Additional causes of a bile duct obstruction can involve:
- Common bile duct cyst formation
- Bile duct inflammation
- Surgical injury
- Tumors that have spread to the bile ducts
- Parasites
What does it mean if my bile duct is blocked?
In the event of bile duct obstruction, the bile is stopped from carrying out its role in helping to process foods. Bile is secreted by the liver to break down fats and enable them to be absorbed, in addition to aiding in clearing waste out of the body. In the absence of care, a biliary blockage could lead to a life-threatening disease of the liver. Reach out to Digestive Health Center near you as soon as possible if you or a member of your family are concerned that you might have a bile duct obstruction.
What is the standard treatment for a biliary obstruction?
The majority of biliary blockages can be removed using an endoscope during a procedure known as an ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography). In extreme, or severe situations, surgery is needed to clear the blockage and sometimes remove the gallbladder. If the cause of the obstruction is due to cancer, the ducts will likely need to be drained and stretched.
Biliary Obstruction FAQs
How common is biliary obstruction?
Biliary obstruction is relatively uncommon, though it is frequently seen in individuals with gallstone-related gallbladder disease or those who have liver or pancreatic disorders.
What are effective prevention strategies for biliary obstruction?
To prevent biliary obstruction, it is advisable to manage risk factors effectively. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, managing dietary cholesterol to prevent the formation of gallstones, and moderating alcohol intake. Regular health screenings can also play a critical role in the early detection of conditions that may lead to biliary obstruction.
What lifestyle modifications can aid in managing biliary obstruction?
Following treatment for biliary obstruction, adopting certain lifestyle changes can help in preventing its recurrence and enhance liver health. These changes include following a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber, keeping a healthy body weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and abstaining from alcohol. Staying well-hydrated and adhering to dietary recommendations from your healthcare provider is also vital.
Get treatment for biliary obstructions
If you or a family member are noticing dark urine or pale stools or believe you may have a bile duct obstruction, please reach out to a Digestive Health Center location near you to request a consultation with one of our GI providers at your earliest convenience. We proudly provide treatment for biliary obstruction in Thibodaux, LA, and look forward to providing you with the high-quality care you seek.
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