Final answer:
A blocked common bile duct leads to jaundice, characterized by yellow skin and eyes, and may also cause fever, malaise, anemia, and abdominal pain. Severe complications can include pancreatitis, cholecystitis, and cholangitis. Obstructive jaundice results from increased bilirubin in the blood due to bile flow obstruction.
Step-by-step explanation:
If the common bile duct is blocked, a person may experience a variety of symptoms, often related to disorders of the liver or pancreas. One of the primary symptoms is jaundice, which is characterized by a yellow coloring of the skin and eyes due to the buildup of the bile pigment known as bilirubin in the blood. Figure 6.7.7 illustrates gallstones blocking the bile duct, causing pain and jaundice.
Other symptoms that may accompany a blocked bile duct include fever, malaise, anemia, and abdominal symptoms such as pain or discomfort. In some cases, there may be more severe conditions like pancreatitis, cholecystitis, or cholangitis. If the blockage is caused by conditions such as primary sclerosing cholangitis, primary biliary cirrhosis, or Budd-Chiari syndrome, management of the underlying cause will also be an important aspect of treatment.
Additionally, obstructive or post-hepatic jaundice is a result of the obstruction in the bile ducts, leading to increased conjugated bilirubin in the blood. Moreover, complications such as cirrhosis and pancreatitis are closely related to prolonged obstruction of the bile duct system. Recognition of these symptoms is important for the timely diagnosis and management of bile duct blockages.