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Bile aids in digesting fats in our diet. It is formed in the liver and travels through the bile ducts to the gallbladder, where it is held until needed after eating. It then goes into the bowel where digestion takes place. The most common benign problem involving the gallbladder and bile ducts is the formation of stones that result from a chemical imbalance of the components of the bile. These stones can block the outflow of the gallbladder, causing pain and possibly infection. If they exit the gallbladder, they can also block the bile ducts, causing a backup of the bile into the blood, resulting in jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin). Stones within the bile ducts can also cause irritation or blockage of the pancreas, a condition known as pancreatitis.
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Gallbladder & Bile Duct Disorders
