Biliary Obstruction in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is a biliary obstruction?
Your biliary system is made up of a network of ducts that function to move bile from your liver into the gallbladder and small intestine to aid in the digestion of food within the small bowel. A biliary obstruction occurs when one or more of these ducts becomes blocked and does not allow the bile to pass freely all throughout the biliary system. A biliary obstruction is frequently referred to as a bile duct obstruction because one of the most usual locations at which these obstructions occur is in the bile duct between the liver and the gallbladder. If you require medical treatment for a biliary obstruction in Indianapolis, IN, our physicians are here to help. Please contact our group of GI physicians at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to let us give you more details about this condition and the ways in which it can be addressed.
What are some of the symptoms of a biliary obstruction?
Bile duct obstruction in Indianapolis, IN patients is not uncommon and can often be treated by a gastroenterologist.
The more common 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
- Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
If you've been suffering from any combination of the symptoms listed above, we urge you to reach out to Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to arrange for a visit.
What are some of the causes of a bile duct or biliary obstruction?
When a biliary obstruction occurs, the most likely culprits are hard deposits known as gallstones. Gallstones can grow when the amount of cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile is too high. These solid particulates can then be carried through the bile ducts and obstruct the movement of bile.
Other causes of a bile duct obstruction could include:
- Common bile duct cyst formation
- Inflammation of the bile duct
- Surgical injury
- Tumors that have spread to the bile ducts
- Parasites
What will happen if my bile duct is blocked?
When bile ducts become obstructed, the bile is blocked from performing its role in helping to break down foods. Bile is released by the liver to break down fats and permit them to be absorbed by the body in addition to aiding in clearing waste out of one's body. Without treatment, a biliary obstruction could progress to a life-threatening disease of the liver. Contact Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology right away if you or a family member think you might be suffering from a biliary blockage.
What is the standard treatment for a biliary obstruction?
Biliary blockages are often treated using an endoscope during a procedure known as an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In extreme cases, surgery may be required to remove the obstruction and sometimes remove the gallbladder. If the cause of the obstruction is related to cancer, then most likely, the ducts will need to be stretched and drained.
Biliary Obstruction FAQs
Is biliary obstruction common?
Biliary obstruction is relatively uncommon but is a well-recognized condition, especially in people with gallbladder disease (often due to gallstones) and those with a history of pancreatic or liver diseases.
How can biliary obstruction be prevented?
Preventing biliary obstruction typically involves managing risk factors like maintaining a healthy weight, controlling cholesterol levels, and limiting alcohol consumption to prevent gallstones. Regular medical checkups can also help identify conditions that could lead to biliary obstruction before they become severe.
What lifestyle changes can help manage biliary obstruction?
After treating biliary obstruction, making certain lifestyle changes can help prevent recurrence and support liver health. Adopting a balanced diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol are key. Staying hydrated and following any specific dietary recommendations from your healthcare provider are also important.
Qualified care from board-certified specialists
If you or a family member have noticed darker urine, pale stools, or any other signs suggesting you might have a bile duct obstruction, please contact Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology to request a consultation with one of our gastrointestinal doctors at your earliest convenience. We proudly offer treatment for bile duct obstruction in Indianapolis, IN and look forward to the opportunity to provide you with the high-quality care you deserve.
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