Biliary Obstructions
Biliary obstructions occur when the bile ducts in the biliary tract become blocked, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream. This obstruction can result in jaundice, which is characterized by a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes. Various factors can cause the blockage of bile ducts, including cancer, physical injuries, cysts, and certain benign conditions that cause narrowing of the ducts. Among these causes, gallstones are the most common culprits behind bile duct blockages.
Gallstones: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors
Gallstones are stone-like objects that form in the bile of the gallbladder due to a lack of water. Surprisingly, about 80 percent of individuals with gallstones do not experience any symptoms. However, if a gallstone becomes dislodged from the gallbladder, it can obstruct a bile duct, leading to various complications such as cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or bile duct infections. Gallstones are categorized into two types based on their composition: cholesterol stones, which mainly consist of cholesterol, and pigment stones, which are primarily composed of bilirubin. Several risk factors increase the chances of developing gallstones, including obesity, diabetes, liver disease, weight loss, pregnancy, and the use of birth control pills.