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When To Get Checked For Bile Duct Cancer

Cancers can develop at any time with no warning, and there are many forms that it can be hard to keep track of. However, the earlier you identify cancer, the more likely the treatment will be effective. One lesser known type of cancer is bile duct cancer, so what is it and how do you know if you might have it? Read on to find out.

What is bile duct cancer?

Officially named cholangiocarcinoma, bile duct cancer is a rare disease which occurs when cancer cells form anywhere in the bile ducts.

Bile ducts make up part of your digestive system and connect your gallbladder and small intestine to your liver. They are a network of slender tubes that carry the digestive fluid (bile) from the liver to the gallbladder. The bile is then released from the gallbladder and passed through bile ducts to the small intestine.

Symptoms of bile duct cancer

Cancer of the bile duct is rare and can be hard to detect early as there are often no symptoms. However, some symptoms of bile duct cancer you might see include:

  • The whites of your eyes becoming a yellowy colour
  • A loss of appetite or weight

There are also some more general symptoms including:

  • Feeling unwell
  • Becoming very tired or lethargic
  • A high temperature and shivers
  • Being sick
  • Pain in your stomach

Bile duct cancer can be a tricky illness to navigate since so many of the symptoms could be much more minor problems, however, it is always a good idea to seek medical attention if you are having any concerns, as it could save your long-term health. If your symptoms do not go away after two weeks, you need to get them checked by a GP or doctor.

What to do if you have any symptoms of bile duct cancer

If you are experiencing some of these symptoms or think you have bile duct cancer, make sure to contact Birmingham HPB clinic. Bile duct cancer is rare but can be a serious problem, so if you think it may be affecting you, make sure you get in touch today and let us get your treatment started as soon as possible for the best outcome.