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Biliary Disease

What Is Biliary Disease?

Biliary disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the bile ducts, gallbladder, and associated structures responsible for producing, storing, and transporting bile. Bile is a digestive fluid that helps break down fats in the small intestine. Biliary disease can interfere with bile flow, leading to complications such as gallstones, inflammation, infection, and liver damage.

Symptoms of Biliary Disease

The symptoms of biliary disease can vary based on the specific condition, but common signs include:

Abdominal Pain: Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, often intense and crampy.

Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to increased bilirubin levels in the blood.

Fever: An elevated body temperature, which may indicate infection or inflammation.

Dark Urine and Light-Colored Stool: Changes in urine and stool color due to impaired bile flow.

Nausea and Vomiting: Feelings of nausea or vomiting, especially after eating fatty foods.

Causes and Risk Factors​

Several factors can contribute to the development of biliary disease. Understanding these can help in identifying and managing the condition effectively:

Gallstones: Solid particles that form in the gallbladder and can block bile ducts.

Bile Duct Stricture: Narrowing of the bile duct due to scarring or inflammation.

Cholangiocarcinoma: Cancer of the bile ducts that can obstruct bile flow.

Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis: A chronic disease that causes scarring and inflammation of the bile ducts.

Infections: Bacterial or parasitic infections that can affect the bile ducts.

Diagnosing Biliary Disease​

To accurately diagnose biliary disease, a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests are used:

Blood Tests: To check liver function and detect signs of infection or inflammation.

Ultrasound: An imaging test to visualize the gallbladder and bile ducts and identify stones or blockages.

CT Scan: Provides detailed cross-sectional images to evaluate the bile ducts and surrounding structures.

MRCP: Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography, a specialized MRI to view the bile ducts.

ERCP: Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography, a procedure to examine and treat bile duct problems.

Treatment for Biliary Disease

Depending on the severity and type of biliary disease, various treatment options are available to manage symptaoms and address the underlying causes:

Medications: To manage symptoms and treat infections or inflammation.

Surgery: Procedures to remove gallstones, repair bile ducts, or treat underlying conditions.

Endoscopic Procedures: Such as ERCP to remove stones or place stents.

Dietary Changes: Adjustments to avoid fatty foods and support gallbladder health.

What Happens If Left Untreated?​

If you suspect you have a biliary disease or are experiencing related symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists to discuss your symptoms, receive a proper diagnosis, and explore appropriate treatment options.

Schedule a Consultation

If you suspect you have a biliary disease or are experiencing related symptoms, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice. Contact us to schedule a consultation with one of our specialists to discuss your symptoms, receive a proper diagnosis, and explore appropriate treatment options.

Schedule a Consultation

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  • Schertz Clinic
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