If you’re experiencing gallbladder pain, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Gallbladder problems are usually discovered during diagnostic imaging or abdominal surgery. However, they’re often treatable. For more information, read about the symptoms of gallbladder trouble. These symptoms often happen when the gallbladder isn’t functioning correctly or is not releasing the proper amount of gallbladder hormones.
Gallbladder
Gallbladder pain is a familiar abdominal ache that can be severe or mild. It usually begins in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen but may also be felt in the upper mid-abdominal or chest area. The pain may also radiate in severe cases toward the right shoulder blade.
Gallbladder pain can be caused by gallstones, small, hard deposits that can grow into the gallbladder and cause inflammation and pain. Over time, gallstones can reach several centimeters in size and block the channels in the gallbladder. In addition to gallstones, gallbladder pain can also be caused by an infection of the gallbladder.
Gallbladder pain should be checked by a medical professional, especially if it lasts for 6 hours or more. In addition, any pain in the abdomen should be evaluated if it is accompanied by fever, nausea, vomiting, and malaise. If the pain persists, it may indicate more acute severe pancreatitis. Patients with this condition must seek medical attention right away.
Gallbladder anatomy
The gallbladder is an organ in the abdomen. It is located in the right hypochondrium and is surrounded by the peritoneum. It empties into the duodenum and is connected to the liver through the cystic duct. The bile produced by the gallbladder is a byproduct of fats and amino acids digestion.
Gallstones, which are pebble-like solid deposits in the gallbladder, are painful. Gallstones form in the gallbladder and can range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. They may require surgery to remove the gallbladder if they become large enough. Pain can be felt over hours or days.
An ultrasound of the abdomen can help diagnose gallstones and gallbladder pain. The ultrasound will look for stones, gallstones, sludge, and signs of inflammation. An x-ray is less sensitive and may not detect gallstones in asymptomatic patients. A CT scan of the abdominal area can also be used to determine the cause of pain.
Gallbladder function
There are several reasons why a person may experience gallbladder pain. One of these is that their gallbladders may not be functioning correctly. The gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver, then transported to the small intestine. Bile is an essential component of digestion, helping the body to break down food properly. Unfortunately, bile can become obstructed and cause gallbladder pain and swelling. In such a case, a doctor can perform a surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder.
Other causes of gallbladder pain include metabolic disorders or sickness. The etiology of functional gallbladder disease is still unclear, but gallbladder dysmotility is thought to play a central role in developing gallstone disease. Some studies have linked gallbladder dysmotility to abnormal gastric emptying or colonic transit. Furthermore, it may be caused by a primary motility disorder, resulting in increased bile viscosity.
Symptoms of gallbladder trouble
If you’re experiencing abdominal pain, you may be suffering from gallbladder trouble. The pain will usually be felt on the right side of the middle or upper abdomen. Sometimes, it will spread to the right shoulder and upper back. The pain may also occur behind the breastbone or between the shoulder blades. Often, it will get worse after eating a heavy meal. However, many other causes of abdominal pain, including appendicitis and irritable bowel syndrome.
Gallbladder inflammation, known as cholecystitis, can be acute or chronic. Infections of the gallbladder may occur due to gallstones, or they may be bacterial. If these infections are not treated quickly, they can lead to severe complications.
Treatment options
If you are experiencing gallbladder pain, you must consult a doctor as soon as possible. Left untreated, the condition can worsen and become much more severe. A doctor will check your health history and perform blood tests and imaging tests to make a diagnosis. The treatment options for gallbladder pain depend on the cause.
One of the most effective treatment options for gallbladder pain is surgery. Although this procedure is risky, it can help you manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of gallstones. Other treatment options include diet changes, medication, and weight management. Your healthcare provider will discuss your treatment options to determine your best option.
Surgical treatment for gallbladder pain can involve removing the gallbladder. This procedure, also known as cholecystectomy, involves cutting a large opening in the abdomen. In some cases, medication can relieve gallbladder pain. If your gallbladder is infected, your doctor may recommend antibiotics or a low-fat diet.