The most common problem in the gallbladder is gallstones. These are crystallized clumps of bile and dissolved cholesterol that form in the gallbladder or bile duct, the tube that carries the bile to the small intestine. Gallstones can cause inflammation and pain. Unfortunately, most people have been diagnosed with this disease.
Mostly women are likely to develop gallstones, and changes in the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone can slightly increase gallstone production. Oestrogen boosts the amount of cholesterol in your bile and progesterone slows the emptying of the gallbladder. The risk of gallstones formation is increased by pregnancy or even oral contraception’s which affects hormone levels.
Gallstones are detected while investigating other healthproblems. But if you experience the following symptoms, seek medical attention.
AStomach Ache
The occasional recurrence of a dull pain by your liver is the most common sign that you have gallstones. The pain often strikes after and can last a couple hours before it resolves. Pain is typically experienced in the upper right abdomen, near the rib, but it can radiate to the upper back and the centre of the abdomen.
Pain following a meal can happen once in a while or even after every meal. Gallbladder attack can also occur and it can last anywhere from an hour to several hours and it is likely to be triggered by large and fatty, meals. The timing of the pain is important. If you are experiencing pain sooner while eating or immediately, seek out medical attention.
Jaundice
Jaundice is a symptom of liver trouble that manifests as a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, along with symptoms like dark urine and pale coloured stools. Jaundice is common in new-borns, but it’s also an indication of gallbladder problem in adults.
The gallbladder releases bile into small intestines through a tube called cystic duct which connects to the bile duct. Jaundice occurs when these ducts are obstructed. If you think of this tube as a hose, there is essentially a stone inside the hose and it causes a blockage.
Bottom Line
There you have it, the common symptoms of gallstones. If any of the above symptoms recur or persist, you should definitely be evaluated by a doctor.Speak to your doctors to see if they need to be evaluated more urgently in the ER or if they can be seen the next day.
