Located underneath the liver, the gallbladder is a small organ that stores digestive fluid known as bile. Gallstones form when bile hardens into solid deposits. They can range in size from minor concretions to large masses, and gallbladder pain caused by gallstones will vary depending on how they affect a specific individual.
When gallstones block the flow of bile into the small intestine, gallbladder removal surgery is necessary to the correct the problem. Dr. Kamrava is a fellowship-trained and board-certified colorectal surgeon who specializes in minimally invasive surgical techniques that provide the highest levels of care and success rates for his patients.
Who Develops Gallstones?
In the United States, gallstones are a common condition that occurs in both men and women. Individuals who are 40 years of age of older have a higher chance of developing gallstones. While some people may develop only one gallstone, others develop many at one time. If gallstones do not produce any physical symptoms, medical treatment is not typically necessary. Gallstones become a health concern when they block the standard flow of bile from passing from the gallbladder in the intestines.
What Causes Gallbladder Pain?
Gallstones may exist for years without any symptoms. When they cause an infection in the body’s bile ducts, they will cause gallbladder pain. The exact reason that gallstones form is unclear, but low-fiber, high-cholesterol diets may contribute to the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder. Many gallstones are primarily made up of cholesterol. When gallstones migrate into the ducts of the biliary tract, the condition is referred to as choledocholithiasis; an obstruction of the biliary tree can lead to acute ascending cholangitis, which is a serious infection of the bile ducts. When gallstones obstruct the exocrine system, a person may develop pancreatitis.
Gallstone Symptoms
In addition to gallbladder pain, a number of other symptoms may be a sign that you’re suffering from gallstones. Although the size and number of gallstones has not been shown to influence gallbladder pain or symptoms, a person may first become aware of the presence of gallstones when they experience intense pain in the upper-right side of the mid-section of the body. This type of “gallbladder attack” is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. A high fever with chills or yellowing of the skin may also be present. It’s important to seek immediate medical care if you experience any of those symptoms.
Gallbladder Pain Frequently Asked Questions
A proper diagnosis of your condition is the first step to effective gallbladder pain treatment. To help you learn more about gallstones, here are answers to frequently asked questions about the condition. Don’t hesitate to contact Dr. Kamrava if you’re experiencing gallstone symptoms or gallbladder pain. Call our office at 424.279.8222 to schedule an appointment.
Q: What causes gallstones?
A: Bile normally passes through the gallbladder, but when the substance hardens, gallstones form. The exact that this happens is unclear, but since many gallstones commonly consist of cholesterol, a high-cholesterol diet may make individuals more prone to developing gallstones.
Q: Is gallbladder pain always severe?
A: Some gallstones may not cause any symptoms, but when you experience gallbladder pain, it will often be severe discomfort in the upper-right portion of your abdomen that lasts from 30 minutes to several hours. The pain typically takes place at night after a meal.
Q: When should you see a doctor about gallstone symptoms?
A: Gallstones that do not produce any physical symptoms often can be left alone and do not need medical intervention. However, the pain and discomfort that gallstones potentially produce should not be left untreated. Intense pain that makes it difficult to get comfortable, accompanied by a fever or chills, may be a sign of a “gallstone attack.” A doctor should be consulted immediately.
Q: How are gallstones diagnosed?
A: When a patient exhibits signs and symptoms of gallstones, an ultrasound or radionuclide biliary scan can confirm the presence of gallstones.
Q: Are there different types of gallbladder removal surgeries?
A: Standard open surgery makes a large incision to remove the gallbladder. Dr. Kamrava uses a minimally invasive technique called laparoscopic surgery. Through this advanced procedure, the gallbladder is removed with only four small incisions. Minimally invasive surgeries offer reduced scarring, pain, and recovery time.
Call Today to Schedule a Gallstones Consultation With Dr. Kamrava
Make an appointment with Dr. Kamrava as soon as possible if you’ve been suffering from gallstone symptoms. If you need surgery, he’ll advise the best treatment method to remove your gallstones and get you feeling better soon. Schedule an appointment today by calling 424.279.8222!
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