Bile duct cancer, also known as cholangiocarcinoma, is a rare form of cancer that affects the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine.

Bile duct cancer is difficult to detect in its early stages, and often the symptoms are confused with other conditions. However, early detection of bile duct cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Below are the early symptoms of bile duct cancer:.

Jaundice

Jaundice is the most common and earliest symptom of bile duct cancer. The condition occurs when the bile ducts get blocked, which results in a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that helps in the breakdown of red blood cells.

When too much bilirubin accumulates in the blood, it causes yellowing of the skin and eyes.

Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain is another early symptom of bile duct cancer. The pain is usually concentrated in the upper-right quadrant of the abdomen and can be persistent or intermittent. The pain may also be accompanied by discomfort and bloating.

Itching

Itching is an early symptom of bile duct cancer that affects almost all patients. The itching is usually intense and is caused by an accumulation of bile salts in the bloodstream.

The bile salts are not effectively eliminated due to a blockage in the bile ducts.

Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

Loss of appetite and weight loss are common in people with bile duct cancer. The cancer cells use up energy in the body, which can leave the person feeling tired and weak.

Also, the digestive system is affected, leading to a loss of appetite and weight loss.

Fever and Chills

Fever and chills are early symptoms of bile duct cancer. The body tries to fight off the cancer cells, which result in an elevated temperature and sweating. The fever will not respond to medication and may be accompanied by chills.

Fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of bile duct cancer, and it is usually accompanied by weakness and lethargy. The body is fighting the cancer, which leads to an increased energy expenditure.

Patients with bile duct cancer may feel tired even after getting enough sleep.

Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common in people with bile duct cancer. The cancer cells produce toxins that can cause nausea and vomiting. Also, the bile duct blockage can cause nausea and vomiting.

Pale Stool

Pale stool is an early symptom of bile duct cancer. The stool may appear clay-colored due to the lack of bile pigmentation. The bile ducts are blocked, and the bile cannot go into the intestine and give the stool its dark color.

Dark Urine

Dark urine is an early symptom of bile duct cancer. The urine may appear dark brown or tea-colored due to the accumulation of bilirubin. The bile ducts are blocked, and the bilirubin cannot be excreted, leading to the discoloration of urine.

Back Pain

Back pain is an early symptom of bile duct cancer that is usually felt in the middle or upper back. The pain may be dull or severe and may be accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, chills, and fatigue.

The pain is caused by the cancer that has spread to the bones or the pressure from the enlarged liver.