Gallbladder sludge is caused by gallstones. In fact, gallstones are considered responsible for nearly all gallbladder disorders. Gallstones vary in shape, composition, and size. A gallstone can be as small as a sand grain – or it can be very large. There can be many small stones inside the gallbladder, or there can be just one big stone.
Gallstones can vary in composition (this depends on one’s ethnicity, diet, and age). The stones can be:
- Pigment stones – dark, small stones, composed mainly of calcium salts and bilirubin. They also contain nearly twenty percent of cholesterol.
- Cholesterol stones – green or yellow stones, usually three centimeters long, with a dark spot in the center. Cholesterol stones are mainly composed of cholesterol (over eight percent of cholesterol is contained in such stones).
- Mixed stones contain calcium carbonate, bilirubin, palmitate phosphate, and some other pigments, but they are mostly composed of cholesterol. These stones are easy to spot when a radiograph is used because they contain calcium.
What Is Gallbladder Sludge?
Gallbladder sludge (also known as pseudolithos) is a condition that occurs when there are thick secretions inside the gallbladder; these can form alone, or accompanied by gallstones.
The symptoms of gallbladder sludge are pretty much the same as the symptoms of gallstones (1). Although this condition can occur even if there are no gallstones in the gallbladder, it’s more likely to develop as a result of gallstone formation within the gallbladder. A gallstone can get stuck in the cystic duct and stop the bile flow. Calcium and cholesterol will create the sludge. Once the sludge is formed, bile flow will be obstructed and this will cause other complications.
What Are the Most Common Symptoms of Gallbladder Sludge?
Gallbladder sludge may show no symptoms in the beginning. However, some people may experience abdominal pain. This symptom can be caused by other problems, so it is not possible to diagnose gallbladder sludge based only on this symptom. Other symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Indigestion
Gallbladder inflammation can result from gallbladder sludge. Other problems can occur as well, and most of them will show similar symptoms. That is why it is important to visit your doctor in time. Even if you have some other problem related to the gallbladder, it will be much easier to treat if diagnosed early enough. Some gallbladder problems can even lead to gallbladder cancer if left untreated.
How to Treat Gallbladder Sludge
This condition is diagnosed sonographically. When the diagnosis is set, the doctor will suggest several treatment options. Some natural remedies can be used in treating gallbladder sludge, such as gallbladder flush. Prescription medications will be used as well. However, you must never use any medications or remedies without your doctor’s knowledge. Gallbladder sludge can cause serious complications, especially if treated in the wrong way. The only way to deal with this problem is to follow your doctor’s instructions. If you have any doubts or questions, visit your doctor.
If your condition is getting worse, or you just don’t see any progress, talk to your doctor. Your therapy will be changed.
People who suffer from this condition are strongly advised to avoid some types of foods, such as:
- Fatty foods. Meat, all kinds of fatty dairy products, fatty sauces, like tartar sauce and mayonnaise, butter, margarine, and fried foods, are not allowed.
- Foods that contain artificial sweeteners and hydrogenated oils should be avoided
- Alcoholic beverages, carbonated beverages, and caffeine should be avoided as well.
You will be allowed to consume foods like:
- Non-fat milk products
- Fruits
- Vegetables (except broccoli and cabbage)
- Natural juices
- Lean meat (occasionally)
Main Causes of Gallbladder Sludge
Gallbladder sludge is a combination of mucus from your gallbladder and cholesterol and salt calcium. It’s usually formed when bile is not released in the gallbladder for too long.
It is most common with women during pregnancy who are following a strict diet.
It is uncommon, however, several types of people tend to experience gallbladder sludge way more often than others. Below are the groups that are prone to gallbladder sludge.
- women – especially during pregnancy and had a history of gallbladder issues
- people who have Native American ancestry
- people with diabetes
- people that have critical conditions
- people who are obese or overweight that lose weight too quickly
- people that undergone organ transplant
Article Studies, References, and Resources
- What you need to know about gallbladder sludge By Zawn Villines https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320057