How does the gallbladder function in the body. What are the most common gallbladder diseases. Which symptoms indicate potential gallbladder issues. When should you consult a doctor about gallbladder concerns.

Understanding the Gallbladder’s Role in Digestive Health

The gallbladder is a small but crucial organ in the digestive system. Located beneath the liver in the upper-right abdomen, this pear-shaped organ measures approximately 4 inches in length. Its primary function is to store and concentrate bile, a greenish-yellow fluid produced by the liver that aids in the digestion of fats.

Bile consists of a mixture of fluids, fats, and cholesterol. When you consume food, especially meals high in fat content, the gallbladder contracts and releases bile into the small intestine. This process helps break down fats and allows for better absorption of fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients into the bloodstream.

The Bile Production and Storage Process

The liver continuously produces bile, which flows through small ducts into the gallbladder for storage. The gallbladder can concentrate this bile up to 10 times its original potency, making it more effective in fat digestion. When needed, the concentrated bile is released into the common bile duct and then into the small intestine.

Gallbladder Disease: An Overview of Common Conditions

Gallbladder disease encompasses a range of conditions that affect the organ’s function and structure. These disorders can cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, may lead to serious complications.

• Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder
• Choledocholithiasis: Presence of gallstones in the common bile duct
• Gallbladder polyps: Abnormal tissue growths within the gallbladder
• Porcelain gallbladder: Calcification of the gallbladder wall
• Gallbladder cancer: A rare but serious condition

Can gallbladder disease develop without symptoms? In some cases, gallbladder problems may be asymptomatic in their early stages. However, as the condition progresses, most individuals will experience one or more characteristic signs.

Gallstones: The Most Common Gallbladder Problem

Gallstones are hardened deposits of bile that can form within the gallbladder. They range in size from tiny grains of sand to golf balls. Gallstones are the most prevalent gallbladder issue, affecting millions of people worldwide.

Types of Gallstones

1. Cholesterol stones: Composed primarily of undissolved cholesterol
2. Pigment stones: Formed when bile contains too much bilirubin

Do all gallstones require treatment? Not necessarily. Many people with gallstones remain asymptomatic and may never require intervention. However, when gallstones cause blockages or inflammation, medical attention becomes crucial.

Recognizing the Signs of Gallbladder Inflammation

Cholecystitis, or inflammation of the gallbladder, can occur suddenly (acute) or develop over time (chronic). This condition often results from gallstones blocking the ducts leading from the gallbladder.

Acute cholecystitis symptoms typically include:

• Severe pain in the upper right abdomen
• Fever and chills
• Nausea and vomiting
• Tenderness when touching the abdomen

Chronic cholecystitis may present with milder, recurring symptoms such as:

• Intermittent pain in the upper right abdomen
• Indigestion
• Fatigue

The Top 5 Symptoms of Gallbladder Disease

While gallbladder problems can manifest in various ways, certain symptoms are particularly indicative of gallbladder issues. Here are the top five signs to watch for:

1. Abdominal Pain

Pain is the hallmark symptom of gallbladder problems. It typically occurs in the mid to upper-right section of the abdomen and can range from mild discomfort to severe, debilitating pain. This pain may:

• Come on suddenly and intensify quickly
• Last from a few minutes to several hours
• Occur after meals, especially fatty or heavy meals
• Radiate to the back or right shoulder

Is gallbladder pain always in the same location? While most people experience pain in the upper right abdomen, some may feel discomfort in other areas, such as the center of the abdomen, just below the breastbone.

2. Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea, with or without vomiting, is a common symptom of gallbladder disease. This can be particularly pronounced after consuming fatty or greasy foods. Chronic gallbladder issues may also lead to ongoing digestive problems, including:

• Acid reflux
• Excessive gas
• Bloating

3. Fever and Chills

The presence of fever and chills, especially when accompanied by abdominal pain, can indicate a gallbladder infection or inflammation. This combination of symptoms warrants immediate medical attention, as it may signify a serious condition such as acute cholecystitis or cholangitis (infection of the bile ducts).

4. Changes in Bowel Movements

Gallbladder problems can affect your digestive system, leading to changes in bowel habits. These may include:

• Chronic diarrhea (more than four bowel movements per day for at least three months)
• Light-colored or chalky stools
• Greasy or floating stools

Why do gallbladder issues cause changes in stool color? When the gallbladder isn’t functioning properly, it may not release enough bile into the intestines. Bile gives stool its characteristic brown color, so a lack of bile can result in lighter-colored stools.

5. Jaundice

Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, can occur when there’s a blockage in the common bile duct. This obstruction may be caused by gallstones or inflammation. Other signs associated with jaundice include:

• Dark urine
• Itchy skin
• Pale stools

When to Seek Medical Attention for Gallbladder Concerns

While some gallbladder issues may resolve on their own, certain symptoms require prompt medical evaluation. You should consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Severe abdominal pain that lasts more than a few hours
• Fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C) accompanied by abdominal pain
• Yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes
• Persistent nausea and vomiting
• Changes in bowel movements or urine color that last more than a day or two

How urgent is it to see a doctor for gallbladder symptoms? If you experience sudden, severe abdominal pain, especially if accompanied by fever or jaundice, seek emergency medical care. These symptoms could indicate a serious complication such as a gallbladder rupture or bile duct blockage.

Diagnostic Approaches for Gallbladder Disease

When gallbladder disease is suspected, healthcare providers employ various diagnostic tools to confirm the condition and assess its severity. Common diagnostic methods include:

Imaging Studies

• Ultrasound: Often the first-line imaging test for gallbladder issues
• CT scan: Provides detailed images of the gallbladder and surrounding organs
• HIDA scan: Assesses gallbladder function and detects blockages
• MRI: Offers high-resolution images of the biliary system

Blood Tests

Blood tests can help identify signs of infection, inflammation, or liver dysfunction associated with gallbladder problems. Key markers include:

• Elevated white blood cell count
• Increased liver enzymes
• Elevated bilirubin levels

Endoscopic Procedures

In some cases, more invasive procedures may be necessary for accurate diagnosis:

• ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): Allows visualization of the bile ducts and removal of small gallstones
• Endoscopic ultrasound: Provides detailed images of the gallbladder and bile ducts

Treatment Options for Gallbladder Disease

The treatment approach for gallbladder disease depends on the specific condition, its severity, and the patient’s overall health. Options may include:

Conservative Management

• Dietary modifications: Reducing fat intake and increasing fiber
• Pain management: Over-the-counter or prescription medications
• Watchful waiting: For asymptomatic gallstones

Medications

• Ursodeoxycholic acid: May help dissolve small gallstones
• Antibiotics: For treating infections associated with gallbladder disease

Surgical Interventions

• Cholecystectomy: Surgical removal of the gallbladder, often performed laparoscopically
• Lithotripsy: Breaking up gallstones using shock waves (less common)

Is gallbladder removal always necessary? While cholecystectomy is a common treatment for recurring gallbladder issues, not all cases require surgery. Your healthcare provider will consider factors such as symptom severity, frequency of attacks, and overall health when recommending treatment options.

Living Without a Gallbladder: What to Expect

For many individuals with chronic gallbladder problems, cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) offers relief from symptoms and prevents future complications. However, adjusting to life without a gallbladder may require some lifestyle changes:

Dietary Considerations

• Gradual reintroduction of fats into the diet
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoiding trigger foods that cause discomfort

Potential Digestive Changes

Some individuals may experience:

• Diarrhea or loose stools, especially in the first few weeks post-surgery
• Difficulty digesting fatty foods
• Occasional indigestion or bloating

How long does it take to adjust after gallbladder removal? Most people adapt to life without a gallbladder within a few weeks to a few months. However, some may need to make long-term dietary adjustments to manage their digestion effectively.

Preventing Gallbladder Problems: Lifestyle and Dietary Tips

While some risk factors for gallbladder disease, such as age and genetics, are beyond our control, certain lifestyle choices can help maintain gallbladder health:

Dietary Recommendations

• Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity increases the risk of gallstones
• Eat a balanced diet: Include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Limit saturated fats: Choose lean proteins and healthy fats
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day

Lifestyle Habits

• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity most days
• Avoid rapid weight loss: Crash diets can increase the risk of gallstones
• Manage underlying health conditions: Control diabetes, high cholesterol, and other risk factors

Can certain foods prevent gallbladder problems? While no specific food can guarantee gallbladder health, a diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins may help reduce the risk of gallstone formation and other gallbladder issues.

Top 5 Signs and Symptoms of Gallbladder Problems

March 29, 2023






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&nbsp6 minute read time

What is the Gallbladder?

What is Gallbladder Disease?

Common Gallbladder Problems

Gallstones

How to Know if You Have Gallstones

Gallbladder Inflammation

Gallbladder Polyps

Biliary Colic

Top 5 Symptoms of Gallbladder Disease

Nausea or Vomiting

Fever or Chills

Chronic diarrhea/Unusual stools or urine

Jaundice

When to See a Doctor

Diagnosis & Treatment

Pain, Symptoms, Problems, and More

Pain is the most common symptom of a gallbladder problem. It can be mild and intermittent or quite severe and frequent. It may begin to radiate to other areas of the body, including the back and chest.

This pain will often be accompanied by other symptoms. Read on to learn more about the gallbladder and how to identify a problem.

Your gallbladder is a 4-inch, pear-shaped organ. It’s positioned under your liver in the upper-right section of your abdomen.

The gallbladder stores bile, a combination of fluids, fat, and cholesterol. Bile helps break down fat from food in your intestine. The gallbladder delivers bile into the small intestine. This allows fat-soluble vitamins and nutrients to be more easily absorbed into the bloodstream.

Gallbladder conditions share similar symptoms. These include:

• Pain. It usually occurs in the mid to upper-right section of your abdomen.
• Nausea or vomiting. Chronic gallbladder disease may cause digestive problems, such as acid reflux and gas.
• Fever or chills. This may be a sign of infection and should be treated immediately.
• Chronic diarrhea. Defined as more than four bowel movements per day for at least 3 months.
• Jaundice. Marked by yellow-tinted skin, it may be a sign of a block or stone in the common bile duct.
• Stool abnormality. Lighter-colored stools is a possible sign of a common bile duct block.
• Discolored urine. Dark urine is a potential sign of a common bile duct block.

Any disease that affects your gallbladder is considered a gallbladder disease. The following conditions are all gallbladder diseases.

• Inflammation of the gallbladder. This is called cholecystitis. It can be either acute (short term), or chronic (long term).
• Common bile duct infection. An infection may develop if the common bile duct is obstructed.
• Gallbladder polyps. These are abnormal tissue growths that may be benign. Larger polyps may need to be surgically removed before they develop into cancer or cause other problems.
• Porcelain gallbladder. This is when calcium deposits stiffen the gallbladder walls and make them rigid.
• Gallbladder cancer. Although rare, if not detected and treated, this cancer can spread quickly.
• Gallstones. These are small, hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder. They can cause acute cholecystitis. More on gallstones and their complications below.

Gallstones are small, hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder. These deposits can develop and go undetected for years.

In fact, many people have gallstones and aren’t aware of them. They eventually cause problems, including inflammation, infection, and pain.

Other gallbladder problems or complications related to gallstones include:

• common bile duct stones
• abscess of the gallbladder
• gallstone ileus
• perforated gallbladder

Gallstones are usually very small, no more than a few millimeters wide. However, they can grow to several centimeters. Some people develop only one gallstone, while others develop several. As the gallstones grow in size, they can begin to block the channels that lead out of the gallbladder.

Most gallstones are formed from cholesterol found in the gallbladder’s bile. Another type of gallstone, a pigment stone, is formed from calcium bilirubinate. Calcium bilirubinate is a chemical that’s produced when the body breaks down red blood cells. This type of stone is rarer.

Explore this interactive 3-D diagram to learn more about the gallbladder and gallstones.

Common bile duct stones (choledocholithiasis)

When gallstones occur in the common bile duct, it’s known as choledocholithiasis. Bile is ejected from the gallbladder, passed through small tubes, and deposited in the common bile duct. It then enters the small intestine.

In most cases, common bile duct stones are actually gallstones that developed in the gallbladder and then passed into the bile duct. This type of stone is called a secondary common bile duct stone, or secondary stone.

Sometimes stones form in the common bile duct itself. These stones are called primary common bile duct stones, or primary stones. This rare type of stone is more likely to cause an infection than a secondary stone.

Abscess of the gallbladder

A small percentage of people with gallstones may also develop pus in the gallbladder. This condition is called empyema.

Pus is a combination of white blood cells, bacteria, and dead tissue. The development of pus, also known as an abscess, leads to severe abdominal pain. If empyema isn’t diagnosed and treated, it can become life threatening as the infection spreads to other parts of the body.

Gallstone ileus

A gallstone may travel into the intestine and block it. This condition, known as gallstone ileus, is rare but can be fatal. It’s most common among individuals who are over 65 years old.

Perforated gallbladder

If you wait too long to seek treatment, gallstones can lead to a perforated gallbladder. This is a life threatening condition. If the tear isn’t detected, a dangerous, widespread abdominal infection may develop.

Gallstones don’t cause every type of gallbladder problem. Gallbladder disease without stones, also called acalculous gallbladder disease, can occur. In this case, you may experience symptoms commonly associated with gallstones without actually having stones.

First, your doctor will talk with you about your medical history, symptoms, and family history. A physical exam is performed to locate pain in the abdomen. Your doctor may also ask about your diet and nutrition before doing a blood test.

Results from a blood test may indicate whether there’s an infection or inflammation in the gallbladder, bile ducts, pancreas, or even the liver.

Imaging tests are typically used to identify gallstones in your gallbladder. There are several types of image tests:

• Ultrasound. This test is considered the best imaging test for finding gallstones. Often doctors find “silent,” or gallstones that do not cause symptoms in this image test.
• Computed tomography (CT) scan. This combination of X-rays and technology can show gallstones as well as reveal complications such as blockage of the gallbladder or bile ducts.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This test shows detailed images of your body’s organs and can show gallstones in your biliary tract ducts.
• Cholescintigraphy. Taking pictures of the biliary tract, this image scan can show gallbladder abnormalities and blockages in the bile ducts.
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This more invasive procedure is often used to address an existing problem, such as a gallstone stuck in the common bile duct.

Once your doctor has performed any necessary tests, they can then try to make a diagnosis, followed by a recommended course of treatment.

If your doctor discovers gallstones in your gallbladder, you might have gallbladder removal surgery. Although gallbladder removal surgery is safe, there are always risks with any surgery. It’s important to speak openly with your doctor about:

• the surgery
• typical recovery
• potential complications

Following removal of your gallbladder via surgery, it’s possible you may develop an infection. Pain, swelling and redness, along with pus at the incision may require antibiotics.

Bile leakage is extremely rare — only 1 percent of people who have gallbladder removal surgery experience this complication.

Injuries to the bile duct, intestine, bowel, or blood vessels are other possible complications that may require additional surgery to fix.

Gallbladder removal surgery isn’t the only way to treat a gallbladder problem. Depending on your issue and diagnosis, treatment may include:

• over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Aleve, Motrin)
• lithotripsy, a procedure that uses shock waves to break apart gallstones and other masses
• oral dissolution therapy, though it does not have a high success rate
• surgery to remove gallstones

Not all cases will require medical treatment. You may also be able to find pain relief with natural remedies, such as exercise and a heated compress.

If you’re experiencing gallbladder problems, you may find it beneficial to adjust your diet. In addition, if you have gallbladder removal surgery, your doctor may advise dietary changes both before (pre-op) and after surgery (post-op).

Foods that may aggravate gallbladder disease include:

• foods high in trans fats and other unhealthy fats
• highly processed foods
• refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and sugar

Instead, try to build your diet around:

• fiber-rich fruits and vegetables
• calcium-rich foods, such as low fat dairy and dark leafy greens
• foods containing vitamin C, such as berries
• plant-based protein, such as tofu, beans, and lentils
• healthy fats, such as nuts and fish
• coffee, which reduces your risk of gallstones and other gallbladder diseases

Symptoms of a gallbladder problem may come and go. However, you’re more likely to develop a gallbladder problem if you’ve had one before.

While gallbladder problems are rarely deadly, they should still be treated. You can prevent gallbladder problems from worsening if you take action and see a doctor. Symptoms that should prompt you to seek immediate medical attention include:

• abdominal pain that lasts at least 5 hours
• jaundice
• pale stools
• sweating, low-grade fever, or chills, if they’re accompanied by the above symptoms

The most common indication that you may be experiencing a problem with your gallbladder is pain in the mid to upper-right section of your abdomen.

Gallstones may be responsible for the pain, and depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor may recommend gallbladder removal surgery if imaging tests reveal the presence of these small, hardened deposits.

Main signs and symptoms of gallstones

Contents

• 1 Symptoms and signs of gallstones
  • 1. 1 Signs and symptoms of gallstones
  • 1.2 Icteric coloration of the skin 90 008
  • 1.3 Pain in the right hypochondrium
  • 1.4 Dyspeptic disorders
  • 1.5 Vomiting and nausea
  • 1.6 Abdominal pain
  • 1.7 Discoloration of urine
  • 1.8 Enlargement of the gallbladder
  • 1.9 Bad taste in the mouth
  • 1.10 Abdominal lobes
  • 1.11 Constipation and diarrhea
  • 1.12 Bitter taste in the mouth
  • 1.13 Related videos:
  • 1.1 4 Q&A:
    • • 1.14.0.1 What symptoms may indicate presence of stones in the gallbladder?
      • 1.14.0.2 How can you tell if you have gallstones?
      • 1.14.0.3 What are the main signs of gallstones?
      • 1.14.0.4 Are there cases in which gallstones can occur without symptoms?

Learn about common symptoms and signs of gallstones. Learn the main signs of pain, nausea, vomiting and other manifestations associated with this disease. Understanding the symptoms will help in diagnosing and treating gallstones.

Gallbladder stones are a common disease characterized by the formation of hard formations in the organ. The main signs and symptoms of this condition are:

Pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. One of the most characteristic symptoms of gallstones is a sharp or cutting pain syndrome in the right upper abdomen. Pain may occur after eating, especially fatty and fried foods, and may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

Continue…

Signs and symptoms of gallstones

Gallstones can lead to a variety of symptoms and signs that may or may not be obvious. One of the main symptoms is pain in the right side of the abdomen, which can be sharp or dull. Pain syndrome often occurs after eating, especially if the food contains a large amount of fat.

Very often, gallstones do not cause any symptoms and are discovered by chance during an abdominal ultrasound. However, if the stones in the gallbladder begin to enter the bile ducts and prevent the normal flow of bile, then acute attacks of biliary colic with intense pain are possible. Pathology may be accompanied by jaundice and a deterioration in general well-being.

It is important to know that if these symptoms appear, you need to see a doctor who can make a correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment. Do not ignore the signs of gallstones, as they can lead to the development of serious complications and require surgical intervention.

Icteric skin coloration

One of the main symptoms of gallstones is icteric skin coloration. This is due to a violation of the metabolism of pigments in the body, since the bile acids responsible for the breakdown and absorption of fats cannot normally enter the intestine due to gallbladder disease.

The gradual accumulation of pigments in the body leads to a change in skin color, in particular, to the appearance of an icteric shade. This symptom should not be ignored, as it may indicate the development of a serious illness.

If icteric coloration of the skin appears, it is necessary to consult a doctor in order to diagnose and determine the cause of this condition. If you are faced with this symptom, it does not require self-treatment, since only a qualified doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the necessary treatment.

Pain in the right hypochondrium

The presence of pain in the right hypochondrium can be one of the main signs of the presence of gallstones. The manifestation of these pains is associated with the functioning of the gallbladder and its channels, as well as with the formation and movement of stones.

Pain in the right hypochondrium may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn, belching, flatulence, constipation or diarrhea. Jaundice, itching of the skin, general weakness, loss of appetite, and weight loss may also occur.

To determine the cause of pain in the right hypochondrium, you must consult a doctor who will conduct the necessary studies, including ultrasound of the gallbladder, blood and urine tests, computed tomography and other diagnostic methods. According to the results of the studies, an accurate diagnosis will be made and appropriate treatment will be prescribed.

Dyspeptic disorders

One of the main signs and symptoms of gallstones is dyspeptic disorders.

Dyspepsia is a combination of various disorders of the digestive system. In the presence of stones in the gallbladder, dyspeptic disorders can become a constant unpleasant symptom.

The main signs of dyspepsia in the presence of gallstones include:

• Pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen and right hypochondrium;
• Heaviness after eating;
• Sensation of fullness in the abdomen;
• Heartburn;
• Gas and bloating;
• Loss of or increased appetite;
• Change in stool (diarrhea, constipation).

Dyspeptic disorders with stones in the gallbladder occur due to a violation of the normal functioning of the digestive system as a result of stagnation of bile and the formation of stones. In case of severe pain and violations of the general condition, it is recommended to consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Vomiting and nausea

Vomiting and nausea are among the main symptoms of gallstones. When a stone blocks the bile duct, it can interfere with normal digestion and lead to feelings of nausea and vomiting.

Nausea is the feeling of having to vomit. A person may feel nauseous even before the onset of abdominal pain. Nausea may be caused by irritation of the stomach wall and may be accompanied by salivation, pale skin, and increased sweating.

It is especially dangerous when vomiting becomes rapid and prolonged, leading to dehydration and loss of electrolytes. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor for vomiting and nausea in order to receive appropriate treatment and prevent possible complications.

Abdominal aches

Abdominal aches are one of the main symptoms of gallbladder problems and possible stone formation. This is a sensation of acute pain that can occur in both the right and left side of the abdomen, often localized in the hypochondrium.

It should be noted that abdominal pain may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, jaundice, fever and general weakness. If these symptoms occur, you should immediately consult a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The following recommendations can be used to relieve stomach pain: eat small meals, avoid fatty and fried foods, stop smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages. It is also helpful to take herbal teas, including those with the addition of ginger or mint, which help reduce inflammation and reduce pain.

However, it must be understood that these measures are not a complete cure and may only provide temporary relief. If problems with the gallbladder and abdominal pain become regular and you are tormented for a long time, you should consult a doctor for an examination and the appointment of the necessary treatment.

Discoloration of urine

One of the possible signs of gallstones is a change in the color of urine. Urine is usually light yellow in color, but if the metabolism of bile pigments is impaired, which can be caused by the presence of gallstones, its color may change.

A change in the color of urine is not a clear indication of the presence of gallstones, as this may be associated with other diseases or causes. However, if other symptoms, such as abdominal pain, appear in combination with a change in the color of the urine, then this may indicate the possible presence of stones.

If you experience a change in the color of your urine, it is recommended that you consult a doctor to conduct the necessary examination and find out the cause of this symptom. Only on the basis of a comprehensive analysis of the state of health, the doctor will be able to make the correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.

Enlarged gallbladder

Enlarged gallbladder is one of the main signs of gallstones. Usually the gallbladder is about 7-10 cm long and about 3-5 cm wide. However, in the presence of stones, the size of the gallbladder increases.

Enlargement of the gallbladder may be caused by blockage of the bile ducts by stones, resulting in bile retention in the gallbladder. In this regard, the bubble begins to increase and swell.

Enlargement of the gallbladder is often accompanied by other symptoms such as pain in the right hypochondrium, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea. In this case, there may be a feeling of heaviness and fullness in the upper abdomen.

If the gallbladder becomes significantly enlarged, complications such as inflammation of the gallbladder or perforation of the gallbladder may develop, requiring immediate medical attention and surgery.

Bad taste in mouth

A bad taste in the mouth may be one of the signs of gallstones. This is due to the fact that stones can cause a violation of the processes of digestion and absorption of nutrients in the body.

Gallstones can lead to improper secretion of bile, which is involved in the digestion of food. When the bile ducts become clogged with stones, bile cannot flow properly to the intestines, which can cause a persistent bitterness and metallic taste in the mouth.

This unpleasant taste can be activated after eating, especially fatty or spicy foods. Also, accompanied by belching, heartburn, burning or stiffness when walking.

If you experience bad taste in your mouth, you should consult your doctor and get tested to find out the cause of this symptom. Since an unpleasant aftertaste can be associated not only with the presence of stones in the gallbladder, but also with other pathologies of the digestive system.

Abdominal lobes

The human abdomen is divided into several lobes, each of which can be associated with certain organs and functions. Observing the condition of each lobe of the abdomen can be helpful in identifying various diseases and symptoms, including gallstones.

One of the important parts of the abdomen is the right upper part. Organs such as the liver, gallbladder, and part of the stomach are located in this area. Pain or discomfort in this part of the abdomen may indicate problems with the liver or gallbladder, including stone formation.

Another lobe that is often associated with gallstones is the right lower abdomen. This area contains the large intestine. If a stone blocks the bile ducts, pain or discomfort may occur in that area.

In addition, the left upper abdomen may also play a role in the diagnosis of gallstones. The spleen and magnum of the stomach are located in this area. Gallstones can cause pain or pressure in the left upper abdomen.

Finally, the left lower abdomen can help determine the presence of gallstones. This area contains the colon and rectum. Feeling discomfort or pain in this part may be due to problems in the gallbladder or the formation of stones.

Constipation and diarrhea

Constipation and diarrhea are disorders of the digestive system in which the natural process of removing waste from the body is disturbed.

Constipation is characterized by difficulty or infrequent defecation. They can be caused by poor diet, lack of physical activity, stress, or certain diseases. Symptoms of constipation can include abdominal pain, no stool for more than two days, a feeling of incomplete bowel movement, and fatigue.

Diarrhea, unlike constipation, is characterized by rapid and loose stools. They can be caused by infectious diseases, food poisoning, stress or poor diet. Symptoms of diarrhea may include frequent trips to the toilet, loose or watery stools, abdominal pain, and a burning sensation in the rectum.

To avoid constipation and diarrhea, a proper diet rich in fiber, moderate physical activity and stress management are recommended. It is important to monitor your bowel habits and seek medical advice if needed.

Bitterness in the mouth

Bitterness in the mouth can be one of the main symptoms of gallstones. The appearance of bitterness in the mouth after eating, especially fatty and fried foods, may indicate a violation of the process of digestion of food, which is associated with poor functioning of the gallbladder.

Bitterness in the mouth is usually due to stagnation of bile caused by the presence of gallstones. Stones can block the flow of bile from the bladder, leading to bile stasis and poor digestion of fatty acids. As a result, it causes a bitter sensation in the mouth after eating.

Bitterness in the mouth may be accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn and abdominal pain. If these symptoms appear regularly and do not go away for a long time, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and an accurate diagnosis.

Related videos:

Q&A:

What symptoms may indicate the presence of gallstones?

The main symptoms of gallstones are:

How can you tell if you have gallstones?

Various tests are performed to determine the presence of gallstones, including ultrasound of the gallbladder and biliary tract, computed tomography, and cholecystography.

What are the main signs of gallstones?

The main signs of gallstones are:

Are there cases where gallstones can occur without symptoms?

Yes, in some cases gallstones may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during examinations for another reason.

Brittle nails and 9 more signs indicating problems with the gallbladder

• Health

It turns out that the desire to switch to a supposedly healthier diet can play a cruel joke on a person. For example, a completely low-fat diet can lead to gallstones.

March 9, 2022

Source:

iStock/Getty Images

The gallbladder is an organ whose importance even some doctors do not recognize. It is believed that it, they say, cannot be cured – it is better to remove it immediately and not suffer. About why this is not so and how to notice problems with the gallbladder in time, the therapist Natalya Zubareva told.

– The gallbladder is a small sac that stores bile. Only kept! And thrown out as needed – when we eat something fatty. Her liver produces about two liters per day, says the doctor.

According to the specialist, the main task of the gallbladder is to break down fats .

If this organ is absent, bile is constantly thrown into the gastrointestinal tract – regardless of whether the person has eaten fat or not. And after eating it, on the contrary, will be missed. This condition can provoke a deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins and fatty acids, poor cholesterol metabolism.

That is why you should not go on a low-fat diet abruptly: in this case, bile will not cease to be secreted, but there will be nothing for it to process. After a while, stagnation forms – and eventually stones will appear.

See also

However, this does not mean that fat-free foods are the only cause of gallbladder problems. Risk factors also include:

How to understand that the gallbladder is not in order

According to a specialist, digestive disorders will indicate problems with the gallbladder . For example, constipation, flatulence, nausea and discolored feces, heaviness after eating. The fact is that in a healthy person, bile increases the activity of the pancreas, due to which the body digests the food eaten better.

By the way, another clear sign of a diseased gallbladder is pain on the right under the ribs after eating .

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In addition, with problems with the gallbladder, a person develops anemia and liver pathology . And in such people nails become brittle, hair falls out – because against the background of stagnation of bile, protein and fat-soluble vitamins are poorly absorbed.

More problems with the gallbladder can be see on the skin: it becomes dry and yellowish, wen appear on it. Even the eyes can turn yellow, because bile helps to remove bilirubin from the body.

Against the background of a diseased gallbladder, a person’s blood cholesterol level may jump . Also, people with this problem develop fungal and bacterial overgrowth syndromes.

Finally, it is problems with the gallbladder that can provoke the so-called visceral obesity. And this is a powerful blow to the heart, liver, spleen and intestines.

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Where to find healthy fats

For a healthy gallbladder, it is important not to give up fats. It is better to add more foods with healthy fats to your diet. These are, for example:

• Fatty fish;

• Hazelnuts;

• Oil;

• Avocado;

• Hard cheeses.

As explained by Zubareva, the daily norm of fat is 1 gram per 1 kg of human weight.

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How else to help the gallbladder

In order for the gallbladder to be in order, it is better to eat 3-4 times a day. If you already have chronic gallbladder disease, then you should add another snack and take smaller portions.