Biliary Obstruction in New Orleans, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat is a biliary obstruction?
The biliary system is a network of ducts that work to transport bile from the liver to the gallbladder, and then to your small intestine to help you digest food within the small bowel. A biliary obstruction happens when one or more of these ducts gets blocked and is unable to allow the bile to move as needed throughout your biliary system. A biliary obstruction is commonly called a bile duct obstruction because one of the common places where these obstructions occur is within the bile ducts between the liver and the gallbladder. If you are looking for medical assistance for a biliary obstruction in New Orleans, LA, we are ready to help. Please reach out to our network of gastrointestinal providers at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to receive more information regarding this condition and your options for having it addressed.
What are some of the symptoms of a biliary obstruction?
Obstruction of the bile ducts in New Orleans, LA individuals is not unusual and can be treated by a GI specialist.
The more common symptoms of a bile duct obstruction are:
- Jaundice
- Itching
- Dark-colored urine
- Pale or light-colored stools
- Stomach pain
- Night sweats and fever
- Vomiting and nausea
- Unexplained weight loss or decreased appetite
If you or a loved one have been suffering from a combination of the above symptoms, we urge you to reach out to a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates location near you to request an appointment.
What causes a bile duct or biliary obstruction?
A common culprit of biliary obstructions is hard deposits known as gallstones. Gallstones may grow anytime the amount of bilirubin or cholesterol in the bile is too elevated. These solid particles then flow into the bile ducts and hinder the flow of bile.
Additional causes of a biliary obstruction could include:
- Cysts of the common bile duct
- Inflammation of the bile duct
- Injury from other surgeries
- Tumors that have spread to the bile ducts
- Parasites
What does it mean if my bile duct is blocked?
If a biliary obstruction occurs, the bile is prevented from doing its part in processing foods. Bile is secreted by the liver to dissolve fats and permit them to be absorbed, as well as aiding in removing waste out of one's body. If left untreated, a biliary blockage could progress to a serious, life-threatening disease of the liver. Please call a local Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates promptly if you or a loved one are concerned that you might have a biliary block.
What is the typical treatment for a biliary obstruction?
For many patients, biliary obstructions can be addressed by using an endoscope during a procedure referred to as an ERCP (endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography). In severe or extreme cases, surgery is necessary to clear the blockage and sometimes remove the gallbladder. If the cause of the obstruction is due to cancer, then, most likely, the ducts will need to be stretched and drained.
Excellent treatment for your health
If you or a member of your family are dealing with pale stools or dark urine or believe you could have a bile duct blockage, connect with a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates in your community to request a consultation with one of our GI providers as soon as possible. We proudly offer treatment for biliary obstruction in New Orleans, LA and look forward to the opportunity to provide you with the excellent care you deserve.
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