Expected DurationTo treat a gallstone blockage and infection, doctors first prescribe antibiotics. After the infection subsides, a surgeon removes the gallbladder. Symptoms caused by a scar (stricture) may improve rapidly after treatment restores the duct’s drainage.Symptoms of primary biliary cirrhosis and primary sclerosing cholangitis may steadily get worse and lead to cirrhosis and liver failure after years of damage. When liver failure develops, a liver transplant can improve survival. However, primary sclerosing cholangitis and primary biliary cirrhosis can return after transplant. PreventionIf you have gallstones, you can prevent bile duct blockage and serious infection (ascending cholangitis or cholecystitis) by having your gallbladder removed. This is done using small incisions in the abdomen, in a surgery called laparoscopic cholecystectomy.If you are overweight or have high cholesterol, you are at higher risk of developing gallstone. To avoid trouble, work toward a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Women who take birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy are at higher risk of gallstones and may factor this risk in their decision to use these medications.Although cholangiocarcinoma is uncommon, risks associated with developing it include smoking, eating a high carbohydrate diet and having gallstones. Certain parasite infections (Clonorchis sinensis and Opisthorchis viverrini, also known as Chinese liver fluke) can increase the risk of bile duct infections and cancers. If you travel to

Southeast Asia, eat fish only if it is well cooked. If you do eat undercooked fish while traveling in this area, ask your doctor for a stool parasite test, especially if you have symptoms of weight loss or diarrhea.

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