Cholestatic Jaundice Treatment

Cholestatis is a condition characterized by any blockage in the flow of bile from the liver. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes) is a common symptom of cholestasis; treatment depends on the main syndrome’s underlying cause.

Bile

• Bile is a digestive fluid created in the liver, and normally it flows through the bile duct to the small intestine. When this flow is blocked, it triggers a buildup of the pigment bilirubin, which in turn creates the classic yellowing associated with jaundice, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.

Causes

• Cholestatis has several potential causes, including physical blockage of the bile duct or liver, cysts, acute hepatitis, scarring of the liver (cirrhosis), bacterial abscess, medications and pregnancy.

Treatments

• If cholestasis is caused by a physical blockage, surgery is commonly used to clear the obstruction. Cholestatic jaundice caused by medication typically ends when the medication is discontinued, while hepatitis-related symptoms typically clear when the disease finishes its natural progression, according to the MMOML.

Considerations

• Individuals with this condition should refrain from drug or alcohol use because these substances are toxic to the liver, according to the MMOML.

Addtional Symptoms

• Additional symptoms of cholestasis may include dark urine, itching, nausea, vomiting, pale stool and abdominal pain.