There are several types of gallbladder disorders; these problems can be caused by different factors, and they can have different symptoms; however, gallstones are responsible for the majority of gallbladder problems; sometimes, gallstones are silent and they show no symptoms, but in some cases, they can trigger other gallbladder problems, causing cholecystitis.
Gallbladder takes part in digestion. It is located on the right side of your abdominal area, under your ribs, right beneath the liver. Bile is produced in the liver, and stored in the gallbladder. After you have a meal, your gallbladder will release some bile and the foods will be digested.
If there is any problem with the bile flow, the foods will not be properly digested and you will experience symptoms like belching, heartburn, nausea, indigestion and abdominal discomfort. Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms of gallbladder disease. It can last for several hours, and it can be very severe. In some cases, jaundice can occur.
Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis is caused by gallstones. This condition affects both men and women, but women seem to be at higher risk.
Gallstones can form in a person’s body, without any symptoms. There are several types of gallstones: cholesterol stones, mixed stones and pigment stones. You have probably heard of “the silent stones”. These stones are small and they do not cause any problems, which is exactly why they are called “silent”. However, large stones can lead to serious complications.
When a gallstone blocks the cystic duct, a person will experience pain and discomfort. This is called “biliary colic”. When this happens, several scenarios are possible: a gallstone can either go back (to stay inside the gallbladder), or it may get out. A gallstone can stay in the duct, and this is the worst scenario. That is when the pain starts, along with other unpleasant symptoms.
The symptoms may include:
● Nausea
● Bloating
● Abdominal pain
● Fever
● Indigestion
● Vomiting
These symptoms are non-specific, and you will have to visit your doctor to determine the cause. Many other illnesses have similar symptoms.
Cholecystitis is treated with medications, but other remedies will also be used. This condition requires some changes in a patient’s diet. Severe cholecystitis is treated with surgery.
If you are genetically predisposed to gallbladder disease, you should talk to your doctor about the best way to prevent it.