Bile is a fluid that aids in digestion by breaking fat cells and absorbing fat-soluble vitamins from the intestine. Bile also helps in eliminating waste material as bilirubin and excess cholesterol and by-products of drugs from the body. Several disorders may block the bile duct causing a problem with flow of bile that result in serious health problems. Gallstones, injury to bile duct during gallbladder surgery, pancreas disorder, tumors in the pancreas, and infestation by parasites are some of the factors that may block the flow of bile.
Some of the symptoms of bile duct disorders:
- Discoloring of the skin to yellow
- Itching sensation
- Fatigue
- Sudden weight loss
- Fever or night sweats
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite
- Greasy or clay-colored stools
When should you consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor if you have signs of sudden weight loss and change in color of urine & stools. You may be suggested to go through few tests that would diagnose the condition.
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