Biliary Obstruction in Northwest Arkansas
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat exactly is a biliary obstruction?
Your biliary system is made up of ducts that serve to move bile from your liver to your gallbladder and then the small bowel, where it helps break down the food you eat. A biliary obstruction is when one of these aforementioned ducts gets blocked and is unable to allow the bile to travel freely throughout the biliary system. A biliary obstruction is commonly called a bile duct obstruction since one of the usual places at which these obstructions develop is within the bile duct located between the gallbladder and the liver. If you are looking for medical care for a biliary obstruction in Arkansas, our team is ready to help. Contact our team of gastrointestinal physicians at GI Alliance of Arkansas for additional details concerning this condition and the ways in which it can be addressed.
What are common symptoms of a biliary obstruction?
It is not unusual to see bile duct obstruction in Arkansas patients, and these cases can generally be treated by a GI physician.
Typical symptoms of a bile duct obstruction include:
- 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 suffering from any combination of the symptoms listed above, we urge you to reach out to GI Alliance of Arkansas to request a consultation.
What causes of a bile duct or biliary obstruction?
Biliary obstructions are commonly caused by gallstones, hard deposits that may form in the gallbladder. Gallstones may grow anytime the amount of cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile is excessively high. These solid particulates can then be carried through the bile ducts and obstruct the flow of bile.
Other causes of a bile duct obstruction are:
- Cysts of the common bile duct
- Inflammation of the bile duct
- Injury from other surgeries
- Bile duct tumors
- Parasites
What does it mean if my bile duct is blocked?
In the case of a biliary blockage, your bile is unable to perform its role in breaking down foods. Bile is secreted by the liver to break down fats and permit them to be absorbed, in addition to aiding in clearing waste out of the body. Without adequate care, a biliary blockage could lead to a serious, life-threatening disease of the liver. Please contact GI Alliance of Arkansas right away if you or a member of your family think you could have a bile duct block.
What is the typical treatment for a biliary obstruction?
Most biliary blockages can be alleviated with the help of an endoscope during a procedure known as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). In severe or extreme cases, surgery may be necessary to excise the obstruction and sometimes remove the gallbladder. If the cause of the obstruction is related to cancer, then the ducts will most likely need to be drained and stretched.
Biliary Obstruction FAQs
How frequently does biliary obstruction occur?
Biliary obstruction is relatively uncommon but is a recognized condition often seen in people with gallbladder issues, particularly those with gallstones, which are the most frequent cause. It is also common among individuals with past pancreatic or liver diseases.
How can one prevent biliary obstruction?
The prevention of biliary obstruction revolves around controlling known risk factors. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, managing cholesterol levels effectively, and limiting alcohol intake to prevent the formation of gallstones. Regular health check-ups are also important to catch any early signs of potential biliary problems before they escalate.
What lifestyle adjustments are recommended for managing biliary obstruction?
Post-treatment lifestyle adjustments can significantly help prevent the recurrence of biliary obstruction and support liver health. Key measures include adopting a diet low in saturated fats and high in fiber, maintaining a healthy weight, regularly exercising, and abstaining from alcohol. Staying well-hydrated and following specific dietary instructions from your GI provider is also crucial for effective management.
Reliable treatment for your health
If you have noticed darker urine, pale stools, or any other symptoms that make you believe you could have a biliary obstruction, then contact GI Alliance of Arkansas to schedule a consultation with one of our gastrointestinal specialists at your earliest convenience. We proudly offer treatment for biliary obstruction in Arkansas and look forward to the opportunity to provide you with the quality care you need.
Reviews
I like to see my Doctor more often than once a year
Great clinic, Cheryl Walsh and Dr. Moore are great.
The Dr and staff are wonderful.
Everything was great with one exception. The nurse that called me back and asked the 1st questions seemed to be having a less than stellar day. I felt as if I were an inconvenience for some reason. It was later in the day and they are all probably tired, but being friendly isn't that difficult. I had a bad experience with a customer once. They described me as being politely hostile. Now I understand how they felt. Otherwise, everyone was great and very helpful.
Always excellent care and a wonderful staff! Wouldn’t go anywhere else!
10
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating