Biliary Obstruction in Denver, CO
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Find a ProviderWhat is a biliary obstruction?
The human biliary system is comprised of a series of ducts that help transport bile from the liver to the gallbladder, and then to the small intestine (bowel) to help you digest food within the small bowel. A biliary obstruction is a condition wherein one of these ducts gets blocked and fails to allow the bile to move as needed all throughout your biliary system. Biliary obstruction is often called a bile duct obstruction because one of the most common places where said obstructions occur is in the bile duct between the gallbladder and the liver. You may also experience a biliary stricture, or the narrowing of the bile duct. In these cases, small gallstones can be lodged and cause a blockage. If you are looking for medical care for a biliary obstruction or biliary stricture in Denver, CO, our experts are here to help. Please contact our team of GI doctors at Colorado Gastroenterology to receive additional details regarding this condition and the ways in which it can be treated.
What causes a biliary obstruction?
The most typical culprit of biliary obstructions are hard deposits called gallstones. Gallstones may grow when the level of bilirubin or cholesterol in the bile becomes elevated. These solid deposits can then be carried through the bile ducts and hinder the movement of bile.
Other causes of a bile duct obstruction might include:
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Parasites
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Bile duct inflammation
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Tumors that have spread to the bile ducts
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Common bile duct cyst formation
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Injury from other surgeries
What are some symptoms of a bile duct or biliary obstruction?
Bile duct obstruction in Denver, CO patients is not uncommon and can generally be treated by a GI specialist. Some of the more typical symptoms of biliary obstruction are:
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Vomiting and nausea
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Light or pale-colored stools
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Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
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Itching
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Jaundice
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Pain in the stomach
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Night sweats and fever
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Dark urine
If you or a loved one have been experiencing a combination of the above symptoms, contact Colorado Gastroenterology to schedule a visit.
What does it mean if my bile duct is blocked?
In the case of bile duct obstruction, the bile is stopped from playing its role in processing foods. Bile is secreted by the liver to dissolve fats and allow them to be absorbed by the body. It also aids in clearing waste out of the body. In the absence of treatment, a bile duct stone that is causing a blockage could lead to a serious, life-threatening liver disease. It is also important to know the symptoms of a biliary stricture. This includes pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, chills and fever, jaundice, itching, and gray or pale-colored stools. If you or a family member are suffering from the symptoms mentioned and believe you might have a biliary block or stricture, please call our Denver, CO office as soon as possible.
What is the standard treatment for a biliary obstruction?
A large percentage of biliary obstructions can be removed utilizing an endoscope during a procedure referred to as an ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography). In severe or extreme situations, surgery may be necessary to remove the obstruction and sometimes remove the gallbladder. If the cause of the obstruction is cancer, the ducts will likely need to be stretched and drained. Contact our team at Colorado Gastroenterology to schedule an appointment in our Denver, CO office.
Biliary Obstruction FAQs
How common is biliary obstruction?
Biliary obstruction is relatively uncommon but still occurs with enough frequency to be recognized as a significant medical issue. It is particularly prevalent among individuals with gallbladder disease, where gallstones are the most frequent cause, and among those who have had pancreatic or liver diseases.
What measures can be taken to prevent biliary obstruction?
To prevent biliary obstruction, it is important to address risk factors that contribute to its development. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, managing cholesterol levels effectively, and moderating alcohol intake to reduce the likelihood of gallstone formation. Additionally, undergoing regular medical evaluations can aid in identifying and addressing any predisposing conditions early.
What lifestyle modifications are recommended for managing biliary obstruction?
Following treatment for biliary obstruction, adopting certain lifestyle changes can enhance liver health and help prevent future issues. Key recommendations include following a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber, keeping a healthy body weight, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding alcoholic beverages. It's also crucial to ensure adequate hydration and adhere to any dietary advice provided by your healthcare professional.
Quality treatment for your health
If you or a loved one are noticing dark urine or pale stools or think you may have a bile duct blockage, contact Colorado Gastroenterology to reserve an appointment with one of our gastroenterologists at your earliest convenience. We proudly provide treatment for bile duct obstruction in Denver, CO and look forward to helping you receive high-quality care for your health.
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