Biliary Cirrhosis (PBC) or Biliary Tract disease is a state of failure of the bile ducts of the liver. A bile duct carries bile juice from the liver and gallbladder through pancreas to the small intestine. Bile is the fluid produced by the liver that helps in food digestion. It helps to get rid of worn out red blood cells, cholesterol, and toxins from the body. Bile is a dark green or yellowish brown fluid secreted by liver to digest food. A major part of bile is released by the small-intestine and rest is stored in the gall bladder. The symptoms of biliary obstruction depends on the cause of obstruction. The primary sign of this disease is presented by a sharp penetrating pain in the upper abdomen. This disease usually develops very slowly, and taking the right kind of medication can slow its progression.
The symptoms can be abrupt and severe, or may appear slowly after years of inflammation and blockage. Bile duct disease causes symptoms related to liver products backing up and leaking into the bloodstream. Other symptoms may be non-absorption of fats and vitamins in the small intestine due to failure to deliver digestive juices. Other symptoms could include: Light-colored stools and dark urine. Jaundice: yellowish skin/ eyes due to buildup of waste product, bilirubin. Itching (getting worse at night or in warm areas). Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. Nausea and vomiting. Fever, weight loss, and fatigue. Loss of appetite.
Some of the most probable causes include: Inflammation in the bile ducts. After effects of liver surgery or injury. Gallbladder injury or surgery. Pancreatitis. Biliary stricture (abnormal narrowing of the duct). Trauma
Various tests are available for people suffering with biliary obstruction: ... Blood test Ultrasonography Biliary Radionuclide Scan (HIDA Scan) Cholangiography: X-ray of bile duct {MRCP(Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography) ERCP(Endoscopic retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)
Antibiotics Antibiotics are used to subside possible infections. Lifestyle changes Patient, if overweight, to manage their weight and adopt a healthy lifestyle. Surgery The treatment involves either substituting a missing part of the bile duct or rerouting the bile drainage.
To prevent the occurrence of this disease, there are certain things one should take care of: Taking a healthy diet, and having a good sleep. Exercising regularly. Avoiding stress and anxiety. Avoid smoking.
