Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) in Thibodaux, LA

Ready to Consult a GI Physician?

Find a Provider

The condition referred to as primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) is a liver disease that is similar to PBC (primary biliary cholangitis), but it affects the bile ducts in and outside of the liver. The condition causes the bile ducts to become inflamed, scarred, damaged, and more narrow in diameter, which could ultimately cause cirrhosis of the liver.

Bile is critical to how the body functions. It helps with digestion and helps the body dispose of toxins, bad cholesterol, and worn-out blood cells. As a result, it is essential for individuals to get treatment for this disease as early as possible. Digestive Health Center proudly provides experienced care for PSC. For further details about this liver condition or to receive care for primary sclerosing cholangitis in Thibodaux, LA, please request a consultation with a member of our gastroenterology team today.

The cause of primary sclerosing cholangitis is not understood. However, it is believed to be an immune reaction to an infection or a toxin. PSC can be hereditary, which means that if a close relative has or had the condition, you have a higher chance of developing it. Factors that elevate your risk of PSC are:

  • Being male
  • Having inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Ancestry (individuals with Northern European heritage are at an increased risk for PSC)
  • Age (PSC is most commonly diagnosed in patients between 30 – 50 years old)


Our providers at Digestive Health Center can offer additional details involving the potential causes of primary sclerosing cholangitis and help you better understand your chance of developing this chronic disease.

PSC is often detected during a routine test for other health issues before any symptoms even appear. Treatment protocols for PSC are more favorable when caught early. Symptoms of primary sclerosing cholangitis may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Itching
  • Pain in the upper right abdomen
  • Fragile bones
  • Swelling in the ankles and feet
  • Dry eyes
  • Unexpected weight loss
  • Night sweats
  • High cholesterol levels
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Darkening of the skin not related to sun exposure
  • Dryness of the mouth
  • Muscle soreness
  • Chills
  • Pain in the joints
  • Dark-colored and oily stools

You should request a consultation with your nearest Digestive Health Center specialist if you experience extreme itching on much of your body or if you feel very tired more often than not. It is especially vital to mention these symptoms to your physician if you have a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.

Doctors and specialists have not determined a cure for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Many of the treatments include addressing the narrowed bile ducts along with the symptoms and complications associated with the condition. Our Thibodaux, LA gastroenterology providers may suggest one or more of the options listed here to treat PSC:

  • Antibiotics for infections
  • Surgical procedure to temporarily open blocked bile ducts
  • Topical creams for itchy skin
  • Balloon dilation to treat narrowed bile ducts
  • Stents to address narrowed or obstructed bile ducts
  • Liver transplant
  • Exercise
  • Avoiding alcohol use
  • Nutrition support
  • Maintaining a healthy weight
Find A Provider Find A Location

As a chronic liver disease, primary sclerosing cholangitis can impact your health in several aspects and could even cause additional health issues without care. Our gastroenterology team at Digestive Health Center is ready to provide the specialized services needed to help improve your quality of life and relief some of the irritating symptoms. To connect with a provider who offers treatment for primary sclerosing cholangitis in Thibodaux, LA, please contact one of our locations in your area.

I am a patient of Dr Toups he is very thorough and easy to talk to.

R.M. Google

Dr Duplechain took his time during my appointment to understand my health concerns. I never felt rushed. I highly recommend

C.V. Google

Not only did he make me feel at perfect ease with what was going on with my body but he was also very friendly. We liked him so much that my husband will go to him in the future also.

J.L. Google

Dr. Toups is very professional and knowledgeable to your needs. He always takes time to ask you if you have any questions and also explains things so you can understand. I would highly recommend him.

R.L. Google

Very satisfied with him answered all your questions and explains everything very clearly

V.P. Google

495

Total Reviews

4.9

Average Rating