Learn about gallbladder disease, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options. Discover how to prevent gallstones, manage gallbladder inflammation, and explore surgical options.
What Is Gallbladder Disease?
The gallbladder is a small organ located under the liver that stores bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats. When the gallbladder malfunctions due to gallstones, inflammation (cholecystitis), or other disorders, it can lead to severe pain and digestive issues.
This guide will help you understand gallbladder disease symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment options, including lifestyle changes and gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy).
Common Types of Gallbladder Disease
There are several conditions affecting the gallbladder, including:
- Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)
Gallstones are hardened deposits of cholesterol and bile salts that form in the gallbladder. They can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball.
- Cholecystitis (Gallbladder Inflammation)
Inflammation of the gallbladder usually occurs when gallstones block the bile duct, causing pain, nausea, and fever.
- Biliary Dyskinesia
A condition where the gallbladder doesn’t empty bile properly, leading to digestive discomfort.
- Gallbladder Polyps
Non-cancerous growths in the gallbladder that can sometimes require removal if they become large.
- Common Bile Duct Obstruction
When gallstones exit the gallbladder and become lodged in the main bile duct, they block the flow of bile out of the liver. This leads to jaundice and in some cases a life-threatening infection called cholangitis. Due to the risk of major complications if left untreated, gallbladder removal should always be considered and offered in appropriate patients.
- Gallstone Pancreatitis
Gallstones are one of the most common causes of pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas and can span a whole spectrum of severity. Mild cases cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Severe cases can lead to multi-organ failure and other life-threatening issues. This is one of the most serious complications of having gallstones and gallbladder removal should always be considered and offered in appropriate patients.
- Gallbladder Cancer
A rare but serious condition that often remains undiagnosed until later stages.
What Causes Gallbladder Disease?
Several factors contribute to gallbladder disease, including:
✅ High-fat, high-cholesterol diet
✅ Obesity (increases cholesterol levels)
✅ Rapid weight loss (causes bile imbalances)
✅ Diabetes and metabolic disorders
✅ Pregnancy (hormonal changes can slow bile flow)
✅ Genetic predisposition (family history of gallbladder disease)
Gallbladder Disease Symptoms
Symptoms vary but commonly include:
🔴 Upper right abdominal pain (worsens after fatty meals)
🔴 Nausea and vomiting
🔴 Bloating and indigestion
🔴 Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
🔴 Fever and chills (signs of infection)
When to See a Doctor: Seek immediate medical help if you experience persistent abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, or jaundice.
How Is Gallbladder Disease Diagnosed?
Doctors use several tests to diagnose gallbladder issues:
- Ultrasound – The most common test to detect gallstones.
- HIDA Scan – Evaluates gallbladder function.
- CT Scan / MRI – Provides detailed imaging.
- Blood Tests – Detects infection or bile duct blockage.
Gallbladder Disease Treatment Options
- Lifestyle and Diet Changes
- Follow a low-fat, high-fiber diet to reduce symptoms.
- Maintain a healthy weight to lower gallstone risk.
- Stay hydrated to promote bile production.
- Gallbladder Surgery (Cholecystectomy)
If gallbladder disease becomes severe, surgery to remove the gallbladder may be necessary. In almost all cases, gallbladder surgery can be performed through a minimally invasive approach (laparoscopically or robotically). Gallbladder surgery is one of the most common general surgical procedures performed in the US. Most patients go home the day of surgery or the following day.
💡 Can You Live Without a Gallbladder? Yes! Bile will flow directly from the liver to the intestine, and most people adjust with minor dietary changes.
Preventing Gallbladder Disease
🔹 Eat a healthy, balanced diet with fiber-rich foods.
🔹 Avoid high-fat, processed foods to reduce gallstone risk.
🔹 Exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.
🔹 Stay hydrated to support bile production and digestion.
Why Chose The ONE Surgical for Your Gallbladder Surgery?
Dr. Sugumaran is fellowship trained in Minimally Surgery. He has extensive experience in managing complex patients that require a multidisciplinary approach. He works closely with your primary doctor and gastroenterologist to ensure you have the best possible care!
Final Thoughts on Gallbladder Disease
Gallbladder disease is a common but treatable condition. If you experience persistent symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for early diagnosis and treatment. Whether through dietary changes, medication, or surgery, managing gallbladder health can significantly improve your quality of life.
💬 Have you experienced gallbladder issues? Speak to your doctor or schedule an appointment today!
Sources
1️. Mayo Clinic – Gallbladder disease overview
2️. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) – Gallstones and Cholecystitis
3️. Cleveland Clinic – Gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy)
4️. American College of Gastroenterology – Gallstone guidelines
5️. Johns Hopkins Medicine – Digestive health and gallbladder disease
