Symptoms of Gallbladder Issues

Would you be surprised to learn that nearly 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. population have gallstones? These hard, stone-like bits of cholesterol or bilirubin that form in the gallbladder can be anywhere from the size of a grain of sand to the size of a golf ball – yikes! Many people who develop gallstones never experience any negative symptoms and some people can live with gallstones for years before any negative symptoms present themselves. In some cases, symptoms are temporary and pass quickly, but in other instances, these gallstones can cause frequent and persistent issues and treatment is necessary.

If you are experiencing any of the following, you may need surgical treatment for gallstones.

• Persistent abdominal pain: the gallbladder is located in the upper right part of your abdomen. If you experience persistent pain in the middle or upper right area of your abdomen, it could indicate an inflamed gallbladder or the presence of gallstones. This pain will often feel like it is radiating around your back and towards your right shoulder blade.
• Nausea and vomiting are common symptoms of problems with your gallbladder. If paired with persistent abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting could be a sign that your gallbladder needs to be removed.
• Fever paired with abdominal pain could indicate an infection in your gallbladder or bile ducts.
• Bloating and gas can occur if your gallbladder is not functioning as intended.
• Diarrhea: If your gallbladder is not functioning properly your body will have difficulty digesting fatty foods which can lead to diarrhea.
• Jaundice paired with abdominal pain can indicate that your bile ducts are blocked by gallstones and could be a sign that you need gallbladder surgery.
• Unexplained weight loss paired with abdominal pain is also a red flag. If your gallbladder is not functioning properly, your body may not be able to absorb nutrients properly which can lead to weight loss.

If you have gallstones but are not experiencing any of the symptoms listed, you most likely won’t need any kind of treatment. But if you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, laparoscopic gallbladder removal may be recommended. This minimally invasive surgery offers a speedy recovery time, minimal pain, and minimal scarring.

If you require gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), you will be in great hands with Doctor Eston Wenger. Doctor Wenger is highly skilled in laparoscopic gallbladder removal and has performed thousands of these procedures over the years. He will take the time to answer any questions you have about your symptoms and the surgery.

Call Vein Specialist Dr. Eston Wenger of Premier Surgical Associates of Cleveland, TN,  at (423) 472-5423 or click here to request an appointment online.