Biliary Obstruction in Houston, TX
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Find a ProviderWhat exactly is a biliary obstruction?
Your biliary system is made up of a network of ducts that serve to move bile from the liver to the gallbladder and then the small intestine, where it aids in the digestion of your food. A biliary obstruction is when one of these aforementioned ducts becomes blocked and is unable to permit the bile to pass as needed throughout the biliary system. A biliary obstruction is commonly called a bile duct obstruction because one of the typical places at which said obstructions develop is in the bile duct between the gallbladder and the liver. If you require medical care for a biliary obstruction in Houston, TX, we are here to help. Contact our team of GI specialists at Gastroenterology Consultants for additional information concerning this condition and the ways in which it can be addressed.
What are common symptoms of a biliary obstruction?
Our gastroenterologists commonly diagnose and treat obstruction of the bile ducts in Houston, TX patients. Among the most common symptoms of a bile duct obstruction are:
- Jaundice
- Itching
- Dark urine
- Pale or light-colored stools
- Pain in the stomach
- Fever and night sweats
- Vomiting and nausea
- Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
If you've been experiencing a combination of the above symptoms, contact Gastroenterology Consultants to schedule a visit.
What are some of the causes of a bile duct or biliary obstruction?
Gallstones are among the most common cause of biliary obstruction. Gallstones can grow anytime the amount of bilirubin or cholesterol in the bile is too elevated. These solid particulates can then be carried into the bile ducts and obstruct the movement of bile.
Other causes of a biliary blockage might involve:
- Common bile duct cyst formation
- Bile duct inflammation
- Injury from other surgeries
- Tumors that have spread to the bile ducts
- Parasites
What will happen if my bile duct is blocked?
When the bile duct becomes obstructed, the bile in your system is blocked from playing its normal role in breaking down foods. Bile is secreted by the liver to dissolve fats and enable them to be absorbed by the body, as well as aiding in removing waste out of your body. If left untreated, a bile duct obstruction could progress to a life-threatening disease of the liver. Please call Gastroenterology Consultants promptly if you are concerned that you could have a biliary block.
What is the typical treatment for a biliary obstruction?
Biliary obstructions can be treated in most patients through a procedure known as an endoscopic retrograde cholangiocreatography (ERCP). In severe or extreme situations, surgery is necessary to excise the obstruction and occasionally to remove the gallbladder. Should the cause of the obstruction be cancer, it will likely also be the case that the ducts will need to be stretched and drained.
Biliary Obstruction FAQs
How common is biliary obstruction?
Biliary obstruction is not exceedingly common but is recognized frequently in medical practice, especially among those with gallbladder diseases like gallstones, which are the primary cause. It also occurs in individuals with prior pancreatic or liver conditions.
What measures can be taken to prevent biliary obstruction?
To prevent biliary obstruction, it is crucial to manage associated risk factors. These include maintaining a healthy weight, keeping cholesterol at healthy levels, and minimizing alcohol intake to reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Regular health screenings are also important to identify and address any conditions that may lead to biliary obstruction before they escalate.
What lifestyle adjustments are beneficial for managing biliary obstruction?
After you receive treatment, implementing certain lifestyle changes can aid in preventing the recurrence of biliary obstruction and enhance overall liver health. These changes include following a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber, keeping a healthy body weight, engaging in regular exercise, and abstaining from alcohol. Staying well-hydrated and adhering to any dietary recommendations from your healthcare provider is also crucial for managing this condition.
Quality care for your health
If you are noticing darkness in your urine, pale stools, or any other signs you believe may indicate an obstruction in your bile ducts, reach out to Gastroenterology Consultants to request a consultation with one of our GI specialists at your earliest convenience. We proudly offer treatment for bile duct obstruction in Houston, TX and look forward to the opportunity to provide you with the personalized care you deserve.
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