Many people have heard of gallbladder disorders, but very few of us are actually familiar with anatomy of gallbladder. This small organ is located beneath your liver. Gallbladder resembles a sack. The bile that is produced in your liver is stored in the gallbladder.
This organ takes part in digestion. It releases the bile whenever you eat something. Fatty foods would be very difficult to digest without bile.
In an adult person, the gallbladder is nearly eight centimeters long, and nearly four centimeters in diameter. This organ can be divided into three parts: neck, body and fundus. The cystic duct connects the gallbladder neck to the biliary tree. The Hartmann’s pouch is a mucosal fold located in the gallbladder neck. This is exactly where most gallstones get stuck.
There are several layers of the gallbladder:
● The epithelium is a thin layer that is very close to the inside of this organ.
● The next layer is called “lamina propria”, and it is composed of loose tissues.
● The muscularis is composed of smooth tissues that enable gallbladder contractions, and thanks to these muscular tissues, the bile will be released into the bile duct.
● The fibrous perimuscular layer is also composed of connective tissues.
● The outer layer is called “serosa”.
Gallbladder Disorders
Most gallbladder disorders are caused by gallstones, but there can be other causes, too. The risk factors include obesity, age, certain diseases, excessive use of antacids; pregnancy, malnutrition, too much cholesterol in your diet, and – heredity. If your parents have ever had gallbladder problems, you may be at risk of develop these, too. Gallbladder disorders can occur during pregnancy, as a result of hormonal changes in the body. Obesity can lead to gallstones, but rapid weight loss and harsh weigh-loss diets can result in gallstones as well.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms?
Gallbladder problems can cause symptoms like:
● Indigestion
● Abdominal pain
● Nausea
● Vomiting
● Jaundice
● Bloating
The pain usually starts in the abdomen, but it can easily spread to your right shoulder. It is likely to start after having a meal. People who suffer from gallbladder problems are advised to eat smaller meals. Gallbladder diet includes some vegetables, fruits, non-fat dairy products, lean meat, and natural juices. Olive oil can be used, but only in small amounts.