Learn the Signs of Gallbladder Trouble

Pain in the abdomen can be both mysterious and troubling. Feeling pain always brings a measure of fear, causing people to wonder if there is something seriously wrong. Alarm bells start going off in the head, “Could this be appendicitis?” “What about my gallbladder?”

What Can Go Wrong?

There are two main diseases related to the gallbladder: cholecystitis (inflammation) and cholelithiasis (gallstones) … no wonder doctors get paid the big bucks! Just the names lead to pain. Anyway, both disorders are often related and have similar symptoms.

Inflammation – cholecystitis may have at least three possible causes: gallstones, a tumor, or bile duct blockage. Tumor growth causes inflammation by blocking the drainage of the gallbladder, much like gallstones would. Blockage of the bile ducts is much less common but can occur because of scar tissue or kinking.

Gallstones – the most common cause of gallbladder-related pains, gallstones affect a surprising number of people. Although many people have gallstones that never produce symptoms, 20% of the U.S. population suffers from gallstone symptoms at some point in their lives.

Symptoms of Gallstones

Since most inflammation of the gallbladder is caused by gallstones, we’ll center on symptoms related to gallstones.

Abdominal Pain – the pain related to gallstones is usually on the right side, directly below the rib cage. It may come suddenly. Gallbladder pain is often called biliary colic by the medical profession, due to the fact that it is related to the flow of bile and is often intermittent (it comes and goes). Gallbladder pain may be steady for 1-5 hours and then disappear for a time.

Back Pain – gallbladder pain sometimes radiates to the back, in the area directly behind the right side of the lower ribcage in the front. It can also radiate up to the shoulder.

Worse after a meal – heavy meals, especially those that are high in fat often trigger gallstone pain.

Nocturnal – gallstone pain often occurs at night.

No Relief – painkillers, changing position, and relieving gas do little to ease the pain.

Relief From the Pain

While the thought of gallstones usually brings surgery to mind, there are a number of other things that may help deal with the problem. Before alternative treatment is taken, it is recommended to receive an accurate diagnosis from a doctor, and work with him or her during treatment.

Note that if a gallstone is blocking your bile duct, you must have surgery immediately – it can be life-threatening.

Gallstones Diet – diet plays a major role in the formation of gallstones. Eating a diet low in fat and high in dietary fiber may help reduce gallbladder attacks. Doctors often recommend that patients reduce refined foods, eliminated trans fatty acids, and include more fruits and vegetables in their diet.

Homeopathic Remedies – homeopathic professionals have a number of remedies that may help find relief. These can be tailored to meet the specific needs of the person who is suffering.

Herbal Therapies – milk thistle and globe artichoke are herbs that are specific to the health of the liver and gallbladder. Supplementation with these herbs may help detoxify the gallbladder.

Gallbladder Flush – many people have found success by doing a gallbladder flush. Before trying this, talk to your doctor. One problem is that if you have a particularly large gallstone, a flush can actually cause it to lodge in your bile duct. You’ll need to have surgery right away if this is the case.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience high fever with chills, intense abdominal pain that will not go away, or yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, seek medical attention immediately! This is one of the signs of a blocked bile duct, and it is life-threatening, as your bile has nowhere to go. This can lead to damage to your liver and cause jaundice.