Biliary Obstruction in Utah
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Find a ProviderWhat is a biliary obstruction?
Made up of ducts and organs, the biliary system is your body's natural network for transporting bile from the liver and gallbladder to the small intestine, where it aids in breaking down food. A biliary obstruction is when one or more of these aforementioned ducts becomes blocked and is unable to permit the bile to move freely throughout your biliary system. A biliary obstruction is commonly referred to as a bile duct obstruction since one of the most typical places at which such obstructions develop is within the bile duct separating the liver and the gallbladder. If you are looking for medical care for a biliary obstruction in Utah, our team is ready to help. Please reach out to our team of gastrointestinal doctors at Utah Gastroenterology to ask us for additional details about this condition and your options for having it treated.
What are common symptoms of a biliary obstruction?
Bile duct obstruction is common in Utah patients and is usually treatable with the proper diagnosis and care.
The more typical symptoms of a biliary obstruction are:
- Jaundice
- Itching
- Dark-colored urine
- Light or pale-colored stools
- Pain in the stomach
- Night sweats and fever
- Vomiting and nausea
- Abnormal loss of weight or appetite
If you've been experiencing a combination of the above symptoms, we urge you to reach out to Utah Gastroenterology to schedule a consultation.
What are some of the causes of a bile duct or biliary obstruction?
In many cases, biliary obstructions are caused by gallstones, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder. Gallstones may occur any time the level of cholesterol or bilirubin within the bile is too high. These solid particles can then be carried into the bile ducts, where they become lodged and obstruct the flow of bile.
Other causes of a biliary blockage can include:
- Common bile duct cyst formation
- Inflammation of the bile duct
- Surgical injury
- Bile duct tumors
- Parasites
What does it mean if my bile duct is blocked?
Patients with bile duct obstructions have difficulty digesting properly, as the bile in their biliary system is unable to perform its role in breaking down foods. Bile is secreted by the liver to dissolve fats and allow them to be absorbed, as well as assisting in the removal of waste from the body. If not treated, a bile duct obstruction could progress to a serious, life-threatening liver disease. Please call Utah Gastroenterology at your earliest opportunity if you think you could have a biliary obstruction.
What is the typical treatment for a biliary obstruction?
Biliary blockages can often be addressed with a procedure known as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In extreme or severe cases, surgery is necessary to clear the blockage and occasionally to remove the gallbladder. If the underlying cause of the blockage is related to a cancerous condition, the ducts may also need to be drained and stretched so bile can flow more freely.
Excellent care for your health
If you have experienced dark urine, pale stools, or any of the other symptoms of a bile duct obstruction, we invite you to contact Utah Gastroenterology to request a consultation with one of our board-certified GI specialists. We proudly offer treatment for bile duct obstruction in Utah and look forward to providing you with the world-class care you deserve.
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