Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis (PSC) in Denver, CO

PSC is most commonly diagnosed before symptoms arise through routine testing for other conditions. Treating primary sclerosing cholangitis is more effective when detected early. The early symptoms of primary sclerosing cholangitis could include itching and tiredness. Other common signs and symptoms of PSC involve:

• Pain in the joints
• Pain in the upper right abdomen
• Swollen feet and ankles
• Frail bones
• Significant sweating during sleep
• Dark-colored and oily bowel movements
• Darkening of the skin unrelated to being in the sun
• Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin)
• Unplanned weight loss
• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth
• Chills
• High levels of cholesterol
• Muscle tenderness

We urge you to request a consultation with a local Colorado Gastroenterology GI specialist should you experience excessive itching on a large portion of your body, or if you feel fatigued more often than not. It is especially crucial to bring these symptoms up to your provider if you have been diagnosed with an inflammatory bowel disease, like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

Healthcare providers have not found a cure for primary sclerosing cholangitis. Most treatment strategies include treating the biliary strictures (narrowed bile ducts) along with managing the complications and symptoms resulting from the condition. Our Denver, CO gastroenterology specialists may recommend one or more of the following options to treat primary sclerosing cholangitis:

• Topical creams to relieve itching
• Remain at a healthy weight
• Avoid alcohol consumption
• Balloon dilation to address narrowed bile ducts
• Regular exercise
• Stents for blocked or narrowed bile ducts
• Nutrition support therapy
• Liver transplant procedure
• Antibiotics for infections
• Surgery to temporarily open bile duct obstructions

To discuss the best treatment options for you, request a consultation with your Colorado Gastroenterology provider.