Biliary Obstruction in Lubbock, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat is a biliary obstruction?
Your biliary system is comprised of a network of ducts that serve to move bile from the liver to the gallbladder before it finally reaches the small intestine, where it aids in the digestion of food. A biliary obstruction is a situation wherein one or more of these ducts gets blocked and is unable to allow the bile to pass freely all throughout the biliary system. A biliary obstruction is commonly referred to as a bile duct obstruction due to the fact that the bile duct (between the gallbladder and liver) is a typical location for such a blockage to develop. If you are seeking medical treatment for a biliary obstruction in Lubbock, TX, our physicians are here to help. Contact our group of GI specialists at Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates to let us give you more information about this condition and your options for having it addressed.
What are common symptoms of a biliary obstruction?
Biliary obstruction is a fairly common condition, but you can find treatment for it from a qualified GI specialist. Some of the more typical symptoms of a bile duct obstruction are:
- Jaundice
- Itching
- Dark-colored urine
- Pale or light-colored stools
- Pain in the stomach
- Night sweats and fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
If you or a loved one has been suffering from any combination of the above symptoms, we urge you to reach out to Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates to arrange for an appointment. Our providers have experience treating biliary obstructions in Lubbock, TX patients and would be happy to discuss treatment options with you.
What are some of the causes of a bile duct or biliary obstruction?
Gallstones are most often to blame in cases of biliary obstruction. Gallstones can develop any time the level of cholesterol or bilirubin within the bile is too high. These solid particles can then be carried through the bile ducts and hinder the movement of bile.
Additional causes of a biliary blockage might involve:
- Common bile duct cyst formation
- Bile duct inflammation
- Surgical injury
- Bile duct tumors
- Parasites
What will happen if my bile duct is blocked?
An obstructed bile duct might be unable to perform at full function processing the foods you eat. Bile is released by the liver to dissolve fats and permit them to be absorbed by the body, in addition to aiding in removing waste from the body. In the absence of treatment, a biliary obstruction could result in a life-threatening disease of the liver. Contact Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates promptly if you or a member of your family are concerned that you might be suffering from a bile duct blockage.
What is the standard treatment for a biliary obstruction?
Much of the time, biliary blockages can be cleared with an endoscope in a procedure called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In severe cases, surgery may be required to excise the blockage and occasionally to remove the gallbladder. If the cause of the obstruction is cancer, it will likely also be the case that the ducts will need to be drained and stretched.
Biliary Obstruction FAQs
How frequently does biliary obstruction occur?
Biliary obstruction is relatively uncommon, but it is a recognized medical issue, most often occurring in people with gallbladder diseases such as gallstones, which are the predominant cause. It is also seen in those with a history of pancreatic or liver diseases.
What are effective prevention strategies for biliary obstruction?
To prevent biliary obstruction, it's important to manage key risk factors. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, keeping cholesterol levels under control, and limiting alcohol intake to reduce the risk of gallstones. Regular health screenings are also crucial, as they can detect early signs of potential problems that could lead to biliary obstruction.
What lifestyle modifications aid in managing biliary obstruction?
Post-treatment lifestyle changes are essential for preventing the recurrence of biliary obstruction and enhancing overall liver health. These changes should include following a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber, maintaining a healthy body weight, engaging in regular physical exercise, and abstaining from alcohol. It is also important to stay well-hydrated and to adhere to any specific dietary recommendations from your physician.
Quality care for your health
If you've noticed darkness in your urine, pale-colored stools, or other signs you believe might be indicative of a bile duct obstruction, we encourage you to connect with Lubbock Digestive Disease Associates at your earliest convenience to schedule a consultation with a GI doctor. We proudly offer treatment for biliary obstruction in Lubbock, TX and look forward to the opportunity to provide you with the quality care you need.
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