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What are biliary tract problems?

Biliary tract problems are diseases and disorders that affect any of the structures that produce and transport bile, including the bile ducts and gallbladder. 

Your liver makes bile, which then drains through bile ducts to reach the duodenum (the start of your small intestine), where it helps to break down food. The bile moves on to your colon, where you reabsorb bile acids for future use.

If there’s a problem in any of the structures that help bile to move through your body, the bile can’t do its job and you can become quite ill. 

There are many different types of bile tract problems, including: 

  • Gallstones
  • Acute cholecystitis (gallbladder inflammation)
  • Chronic cholecystitis
  • Malignancies (cancer)
  • Cysts
  • Scarring 
  • Infections

One bile duct problem can lead to another. For example, chronic gallbladder inflammation can lead to scarring and even liver failure. 

What are the symptoms of bile duct problems?

Bile duct problems can cause a number of symptoms, such as: 

  • Yellowing of skin and eyes (jaundice)
  • Abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right abdomen
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Poor appetite
  • Unexpected weight loss
  • Exhaustion
  • Dark urine
  • Pale stools
  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Itchy skin

The specific symptoms can vary with the disease or disorder, but with most biliary tract problems, you experience several symptoms at once.

Am I at risk for bile duct problems?

Risk factors like genetics, advancing age, carrying extra weight, eating a high-fat diet, and leading a sedentary lifestyle can increase your chances of developing bile duct problems. Fortunately, you can modify some of these risk factors through lifestyle and diet changes. 

How are biliary tract problems treated?

Treatment can vary with your test results and specific diagnosis. You may need medication, such as antibiotics to fight infection or drugs to improve bile flow from your liver. 

Some biliary tract problems require surgery to remove gallstones, drain clogged bile ducts, or remove the gallbladder. In most cases, your Gastrointestinal Consultants doctor performs minimally invasive surgery with tiny incisions. 

Biliary tract issues can cause problems such as abdominal pain, jaundice, and even liver failure if untreated. Fortunately, Gastrointestinal Consultants can help you manage and prevent these issues before they threaten your health. 

Book your appointment online or call the office to arrange your consultation with an expert today.