Gallbladder Disease
Gall bladder disease includes inflammation, infection, stones, or obstruction of the gallbladder.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The gallbladder is a sac located under the liver. It stores and concentrates bile produced in the liver. Bile aids in the digestion of fats, and is released from the gallbladder into the upper small intestine (duodenum) in response to food (especially fats). Conditions which slow or obstruct the flow of bile out of the gallbladder result in gall bladder disease. Types of gallbladder disease include:
- Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
- Cholelithiasis (gallstones)
- Abdominal fullness or gas
- Abdominal pain that is: Severe
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
- Heartburn
- Chills and shaking
- Chest pain under the breastbone
Located on the right side (right upper quadrant) or in the upper middle of the abdomen (epigastric)
Decreased over 12 to 18 hours in uncomplicated cases
Recurrent or similar to pain in past
Occurring after meals
Worse during deep intake of breath
Radiating to back or below the right shoulder blade
Worse after eating or drinking fatty foods or fluids
Treatment depends on the specific type of gallbladder disease.
Prevention
In most cases, prevention is not possible. Weight reduction, and reducing intake of fatty foods, may reduce symptoms in people with gallbladder disease. Use of the medicine ursodiol may shrink gallstones, but it is used only in special cases.
Credit: National Institute of Health.