Unresolved Liver and Biliary Concerns
Hello everyone! I'm a 22-year-old female seeking insight and shared experiences regarding my current health situation. My discomfort began back in April 2024, shortly after I underwent gallbladder surgery in February 2024. It's important to note that my symptoms do not align with post-cholecystectomy syndrome. Throughout this period, I've experienced several instances of increased liver enzyme levels, with readings soaring as high as 1000, necessitating two hospital stays. Today, I received the results of my Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP), which revealed a dilated bile duct. During my initial hospital visit, doctors suspected viral hepatitis as the cause of my symptoms. However, subsequent tests indicated that I had neither a viral infection nor hepatitis, leading to that diagnosis being retracted. I have since been referred to the hepatobiliary pancreatic team at my local medical center, but I would appreciate any perspectives or advice from those who might have encountered a similar predicament. Additionally, I’ve been diagnosed with bile acid malabsorption and am currently taking colesevelam. I suspect that this treatment may be offering some relief from my pain episodes. Thanks in advance for your help!
Answers (1)
4/1/2025, 7:10:41 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a complex situation with your liver and biliary system after your gallbladder surgery. The key points to focus on are the elevated liver enzyme levels, the dilated bile duct shown in your MRCP, and the diagnosis of bile acid malabsorption. You're right to seek additional experiences from others, as shared insights can be valuable.
Explanation
After gallbladder surgery, it's not uncommon for patients to experience complications related to bile flow, especially if there's a dilated bile duct. The increase in liver enzymes suggests some form of strain or injury to the liver, which could still be associated with the changes that occur postoperatively. Bile acid malabsorption can contribute to gastrointestinal pain and may relate to your overall discomfort.
Since you have been referred to a hepatobiliary pancreatic team, you're on the right track for comprehensive care. This specialist team will further investigate your condition and determine the next steps based on your specific findings.
Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed log of your symptoms, including pain episodes, when they occur, their intensity, and any triggers. This will help your medical team better understand your condition.
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Medication Management: Continue taking colesevelam as prescribed, as it appears to help with your bile acid malabsorption symptoms. Ensure you discuss any changes in symptoms or side effects with your healthcare provider.
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Stay Informed: Prepare any questions or concerns you might have for your upcoming appointments. Knowledge about your condition can empower you and assist in shared decision-making with healthcare providers.
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Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet that is low in fats which can exacerbate symptoms of bile acid malabsorption. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can be beneficial.
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Follow-Up Testing: Stay proactive about follow-up tests or imaging as recommended by your hepatobiliary team to monitor your liver function and biliary system.
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Support Groups: Consider connecting with support groups or forums where others may have experienced similar post-surgical issues, as they can provide both emotional support and practical advice.
Your situation is understandably challenging, but with careful monitoring and collaboration with your healthcare providers, you are taking the right steps towards finding relief and resolution. If you have further questions or need clarification, feel free to ask.
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