How does the gallbladder contribute to digestion. What are the main functions of the gallbladder. Where is the gallbladder located in the body. What happens when the gallbladder malfunctions. Who is at risk for gallbladder problems.

The Anatomy and Location of the Gallbladder

The gallbladder is a small but crucial organ in the human digestive system. Located just beneath the liver, this pear-shaped sac measures approximately 7 to 10 centimeters (2.7 to 3.9 inches) in length and up to 5 centimeters (2 inches) across at its widest point. Its thin-walled structure allows it to expand and contract as needed to store and release bile.

Where exactly is the gallbladder situated in the body? The gallbladder is nestled in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, directly under the liver. This strategic position allows it to work in close conjunction with the liver to aid in the digestion process.

Key Anatomical Features of the Gallbladder:

• Pear-shaped structure
• Thin-walled sac
• Located beneath the liver
• Connected to the liver and small intestine via ducts

The Primary Functions of the Gallbladder

The gallbladder plays a vital role in the digestive process, primarily through its interaction with bile. What are the main functions of this small organ? The gallbladder serves two essential purposes: storing bile and concentrating it for more efficient use in digestion.

Bile Storage and Concentration

The liver produces between 800 to 1,000 milliliters (about 27 to 34 fluid ounces) of bile daily. This yellowish-green liquid is crucial for fat digestion. The gallbladder stores this bile, concentrating it to make it more potent. How much bile can the gallbladder hold? Typically, it can store between 30 to 80 milliliters (about 1 to 2.7 fluid ounces) of concentrated bile.

Bile Release and Fat Digestion

When we consume fatty foods, the gallbladder contracts, releasing concentrated bile into the small intestine. This process is crucial for breaking down fats in our diet. How does bile aid in fat digestion? Bile salts in the concentrated bile break down large fat globules into smaller droplets, making it easier for digestive enzymes to process them.

The Composition and Importance of Bile

Bile is a complex fluid that plays a crucial role in digestion. What are the main components of bile? Bile consists primarily of water, but it also contains several important substances:

• Bile salts
• Cholesterol
• Lecithin (a type of fat)
• Bile pigments (primarily bilirubin)

Why is bilirubin important? Bilirubin, the main bile pigment, is a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown in the liver. It’s responsible for giving urine its yellow color and stool its brown hue.

The Role of Bile in Fat Digestion

Bile plays a crucial role in the digestion and absorption of fats. How does bile facilitate fat digestion? Bile salts break down large fat globules into smaller droplets, increasing the surface area for pancreatic enzymes to act upon. This emulsification process is essential for efficient fat digestion and absorption in the small intestine.

The Gallbladder’s Role in the Digestive Process

The gallbladder works in harmony with other digestive organs to ensure efficient nutrient absorption. How does the gallbladder coordinate with other digestive organs? When we eat, especially foods containing fat, several processes occur:

1. The liver produces bile and sends it to the gallbladder for storage.
2. The gallbladder concentrates the bile, making it more potent.
3. When fatty foods enter the small intestine, the gallbladder contracts.
4. Concentrated bile is released into the small intestine.
5. Bile helps break down fats, aiding in their digestion and absorption.

Is bile only released during meals? No, the liver continuously produces bile. Between meals, when fat digestion isn’t necessary, most of the bile flows directly into the gallbladder for storage and concentration.

Common Gallbladder Problems and Risk Factors

While the gallbladder is a vital organ, it can sometimes experience issues. What are some common gallbladder problems? Gallstones, cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), and biliary dyskinesia are among the most frequent gallbladder disorders.

Risk Factors for Gallbladder Issues

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing gallbladder problems. Who is at higher risk for gallbladder issues? Risk factors include:

• Being over 40 years old
• Being female
• Pregnancy or having children
• Being overweight or obese
• Rapid weight loss
• Family history of gallbladder problems

Can gallbladder problems be prevented? While not all risk factors are controllable, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of gallbladder issues.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Gallbladder Disorders

Recognizing the signs of gallbladder problems is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment. What are common symptoms of gallbladder issues? Symptoms may include:

• Pain in the upper right abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Changes in stool color or urine

How are gallbladder problems diagnosed? Doctors typically use a combination of physical examinations, blood tests, and imaging studies such as ultrasounds or CT scans to diagnose gallbladder disorders.

The Importance of Timely Diagnosis

Early detection of gallbladder issues is crucial for effective treatment. Why is prompt diagnosis important? Untreated gallbladder problems can lead to serious complications, including infections, pancreatitis, and in rare cases, gallbladder cancer.

Treatment Options for Gallbladder Disorders

The treatment for gallbladder problems depends on the specific condition and its severity. What are the main treatment options for gallbladder issues? Treatment may include:

• Lifestyle changes and dietary modifications
• Medications to dissolve gallstones
• Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy)

Is gallbladder removal always necessary? Not always. In some cases, dietary changes or medications may be sufficient. However, for recurrent or severe problems, surgical removal of the gallbladder is often recommended.

Life After Gallbladder Removal

Many people worry about the effects of gallbladder removal on their digestive health. Can you live normally without a gallbladder? Yes, most people can lead normal, healthy lives without a gallbladder. The liver continues to produce bile, which flows directly into the small intestine. However, some individuals may need to make dietary adjustments to manage digestion effectively.

Maintaining Gallbladder Health

While not all gallbladder problems can be prevented, there are steps you can take to promote gallbladder health. How can you maintain a healthy gallbladder? Consider the following tips:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber
• Stay hydrated
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid rapid weight loss

Are there specific foods that promote gallbladder health? Yes, foods high in fiber, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can support gallbladder function. Limiting fatty, fried foods and maintaining a consistent eating schedule can also be beneficial.

Understanding the gallbladder’s role in digestion and recognizing potential issues is crucial for overall digestive health. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and being aware of risk factors, you can support your gallbladder’s function and potentially prevent common gallbladder problems. Remember, if you experience persistent symptoms or have concerns about your gallbladder health, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance.

How does the gallbladder work? – InformedHealth.org

Created: January 21, 2010; Last Update: September 6, 2018; Next update: 2021.

The gallbladder is located right underneath the liver. This thin-walled, pear-shaped sack is about 7 to 10 centimeters (2.7 to 3.9 inches) long and up to 5 centimeters (2 inches) across at its widest point.

The gallbladder stores and concentrates bile from the liver. The bile is then released into the first section of the small intestine (the duodenum), where it helps your body to break down and absorb fats from food.

The cells of the liver produce about 800 to 1,000 milliliters (about 27 to 34 fluid ounces) of bile every day. Bile is a yellow, brownish or olive-green liquid that helps our body digest fats. The liver cells secrete the bile into small canals that lead to the common bile duct. From there, a smaller duct branches off and leads to the gallbladder. The common bile duct ends at the small intestine.

The bile produced by the liver flows directly into the small intestine during a meal. Between meals, when there’s no fat that needs to be digested, most of the bile flows into the gallbladder instead, where it is concentrated and stored. The gallbladder usually holds about 30 to 80 milliliters (about 1 to 2.7 fluid ounces) of fluid. When we eat fatty foods, the gallbladder contracts and squeezes bile through the bile duct. The bile is mixed into the semi-digested food in the small intestine.

Bile is mainly made up of water, but also has bile salts, cholesterol, certain fats (lecithin) and bile pigments in it. The most important bile pigment, bilirubin, is made when red blood cells are broken down in the liver. Bilirubin is what makes urine yellow and stool brown.

Bile salts break down larger fat globules in food into small droplets of fat. Smaller fat droplets are easier for the digestive enzymes from the pancreas to process and break down. The bile salts also help the cells in the bowel to absorb these fat droplets.

• Menche N (Ed). Biologie Anatomie Physiologie. München: Urban und Fischer; 2012.

• Pschyrembel. Klinisches Wörterbuch. Berlin: De Gruyter; 2017.

• Schmidt R, Lang F, Heckmann M. Physiologie des Menschen: mit Pathophysiologie. Berlin: Springer; 2011.

• IQWiG health information is written with the aim of helping
  people understand the advantages and disadvantages of the main treatment options and health
  care services.

  Because IQWiG is a German institute, some of the information provided here is specific to the
  German health care system. The suitability of any of the described options in an individual
  case can be determined by talking to a doctor. We do not offer individual consultations.

  Our information is based on the results of good-quality studies. It is written by a
  team of
  health care professionals, scientists and editors, and reviewed by external experts. You can
  find a detailed description of how our health information is produced and updated in
  our methods.

What Does the Gallbladder Do and What Happens When It Malfunctions?: Rockwall Surgical Specialists: General Surgery

The gallbladder is rarely on anyone’s radar until something goes amiss with it. This small but mighty organ can cause some major digestive issues when it fails to function properly.

Receiving a diagnosis of gallbladder disease can leave you wondering just what is the gallbladder? Read on to learn how this pear-shaped organ works and what happens when it fails.

Gallbladder 101

The gallbladder is a small organ situated just below your liver. Its primary purpose is to hold bile, an important digestive fluid secreted by the liver. This yellow liquid is composed of bile acid, salts, and fatty substances including cholesterol. Bile aids in digesting fats and is needed to absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.

How does the gallbladder function?

When you eat a meal, many systems spring into action and work together to break down food, utilize or store the nutrients, and excrete the rest. The gallbladder is one part of a larger system in place that enables you to digest components from the food you eat.

When you consume fat-containing food, your gallbladder contracts, squeezing bile into the small intestine, where it’s needed to make use of the fat from your diet. Without bile, your body can’t digest fats properly. The amount of bile your gallbladder releases is in proportion to the amount of fat in your digestive system. If you consume a low-fat meal, your gallbladder releases a small amount of bile to get the job done.

Gallbladder problems

Like any organ in the body, the gallbladder can experience problems functioning. Anyone can develop gallbladder issues. However, you’re at a higher risk if you:

• Have had children
• Are overweight
• Are over 40
• Are a woman
• Have experienced rapid weight loss

Most commonly, gallstones develop and prevent the gallbladder from functioning properly. These rock-like pebbles, usually composed mostly of cholesterol that becomes hard and crystallizes, can vary in size and clog up your gallbladder.

Many people who have gallstones have no symptoms. When stones become large or block your bile ducts, symptoms are usually prominent. Symptoms of gallstones are:

• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Heartburn
• Cramping

Symptoms that come on after eating a fatty meal are telltale signs of gallbladder disease. Some patients with gallbladder disease experience chronic diarrhea.

Gallbladder problems can also happen without stones. The gallbladder can become inflamed or develop polyps, for example.

Don’t ignore gallbladder issues

You should never ignore gallbladder problems because potentially serious complications can arise if they’re left untreated. An obstruction of the bile duct can cause infection. If not found and treated early, the infection can spread and become fatal.

Treating gallbladder disease with surgery

By the time you’re having recurring or constant symptoms, it’s time to get treatment. Surgery to remove the gallbladder and redirect bile flow is the most common way to treat gallbladder disease. At Rockwall Surgical Specialists, our top-quality surgeons specialize in minimally invasive surgical approaches. Your surgeon can safely remove your gallbladder using laparoscopic or single-site robotic surgery.

Laparoscopic surgery involves removing the gallbladder by making small holes, instead of one long incision. Single-site robotic surgery involves one tiny incision through your navel. Both surgical approaches reduce the risk of complications and improve the aesthetic outcome, resulting in less scarring. In fact, the single-site robotic approach provides a virtually scarless result.

Some people aren’t candidates for the laparoscopic or single-site robotic approach. If this is the case, your surgeon can discuss open gallbladder surgery. Laparoscopic or single-site robotic approach may not be appropriate if your gallbladder is severely damaged, or you have scar tissue from a previous abdominal surgery.

When to see a doctor

If you notice pain in the area beneath your liver, experience nausea or vomit after a fatty meal, or have diarrhea after eating fatty food, it’s time to see a doctor for a comprehensive evaluation. Don’t put off addressing gallbladder issues. Once diseased, the gallbladder doesn’t usually get better on its own, and putting off treatment raises your risk of complications.

To learn more about gallbladder disease treatment at Rockwall Surgical Specialists, visit the office nearest you. We’re located in Rowlett, Rockwall, Greenville, Forney, and Terrell, Texas. Call or request an appointment online today.

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main causes and symptoms of gallbladder disease

Contents

• 1 Gallbladder liz burbo
  • 1.1 Causes and symptoms of gallbladder disease
  • 1.2 What is gallbladder disease?
  • 1.3 Main causes of disease
  • 1.4 Symptoms of gallbladder disease
  • 1.5 How to identify gallbladder disease?
  • 1.6 Treatment of gallbladder disease
  • 1.7 Prevention of gallbladder disease
  • 1.8 Consequences of gallbladder disease
  • 1.9 Q&A:
    • • 1.9.0.1 What symptoms may indicate gallbladder disease?
      • 1.9.0.2 What causes gallbladder disease?
      • 1.9.0.3 What factors can contribute to the development of gallbladder disease?
      • 1.9.0.4 What diagnostic methods are used for gallbladder disease?
  • 1.10 Related videos:

Liz Burbo is a disease characterized by the formation of gallstones. The article discusses the symptoms, causes and methods of treatment of this disease. Find out how to prevent the development of YPD and how to manage it.

Gallbladder disease is a common condition that can cause serious problems for your health. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor diet, heredity, and other medical conditions.

The main causes of gallbladder disease:

1. The pancreas produces too much cholesterol, which leads to the formation of gallstones.
2. An unhealthy diet rich in fatty and fried foods can contribute to the formation of stones and gallbladder disease.
3. Heredity may play a role in the development of gallbladder disease. If your parents or close relatives have had gallbladder problems, you may be at an increased risk.
4. Some medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and cirrhosis of the liver, may increase the risk of gallbladder disease.

Main symptoms of gallbladder disease:

• Pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. It can be acute or dull and usually occurs after eating.
• Discomfort or feeling of fullness in the abdomen.
• Changes in stool such as diarrhea or constipation.
• Bitterness or metallic taste in the mouth.
• Changes in appetite and weight.

If you suspect gallbladder disease, see your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Seeking care early can help prevent serious complications and improve your condition.

Causes and symptoms of gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease can be caused by various factors. Some of the leading causes include:

• Gallstone disease: formation of stones in the gallbladder or bile ducts.
• Inflammation of the gallbladder: may be caused by infection or other inflammatory conditions.
• Biliary malady: violation of the secretion of bile from the bladder into the intestines.
• Injury or injury: eg during surgery.
• Genetic factors: some gallbladder diseases can be inherited.

Symptoms of gallbladder disease can vary, but some of the most common include:

• Pain: Sharp or dull pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen.
• Discomfort: a feeling of fullness or heaviness in the abdomen after eating.
• Dyspepsia: digestive disorders including heartburn, vomiting or nausea.
• Icterus: jaundice of the skin and eyes, caused by stasis of bile.
• Fever: increased body temperature.

If you suspect a gallbladder disease, see your doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

What is gallbladder disease?

Gallbladder disease is a pathological condition that can occur due to various reasons and leads to disruption of the functioning of this organ.

Major causes of gallbladder disease:

• Gallstones are hard deposits in the gallbladder that can block the bile ducts and cause inflammation.
• Chronic cholecystitis is an inflammation of the gallbladder that can be caused by infection or other factors.
• Gall sludge is a thick fluid in the gallbladder that can turn into stones or cause inflammation.
• Gallstone disease is a chronic metabolic disorder that leads to the formation of gallstones.

Main symptoms of gallbladder disease:

• Pain in the right hypochondrium, which may radiate to the back or shoulder.
• Discomfort and heaviness in the abdomen after meals, especially those rich in fat.
• Diarrhea or constipation.
• Discoloration of feces and urine.
• Heartburn and belching.

If you suspect a gallbladder disease, see your doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The main causes of the disease

• Poor nutrition: improper diet, excess fatty and fried foods, consumption of large amounts of spices and preservatives can lead to the development of gallbladder disease.
• Sedentary lifestyle: insufficient physical activity and prolonged sitting contribute to metabolic disorders and bile stasis, which can cause disease.
• Genetic predisposition: Having a family history of gallbladder disease may increase the risk of developing it in offspring.
• Overweight: Being overweight can lead to metabolic disorders and the formation of gallstones.
• Chronic diseases: The presence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and others may increase the risk of developing gallbladder disease.

Knowing the main causes of gallbladder disease allows you to take measures to prevent it and timely visit a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease can present with a variety of symptoms that can be overt or covert. Here are some of the main symptoms to look out for:

• Pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen: this pain can be sharp or dull, constant or paroxysmal. It may worsen after eating, especially fatty or spicy food, and may be accompanied by a feeling of fullness or fullness.
• Dyspepsia: is a general term describing stomach discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, heartburn, belching, feeling of stomach upset and poor digestion.
• Changes in stool: gallbladder disease can cause changes in stool such as diarrhea or constipation.
• Jaundice: is a condition in which the skin, mucous membranes and eyes become yellow due to an increased content of bile pigment in the blood.
• Fever and chills: Some gallbladder disorders may cause fever and chills.

If you experience one or more of these symptoms, it is recommended that you see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Seeking medical attention early can help prevent complications and improve your health.

How to identify gallbladder disease?

Gallbladder disease can present with a variety of symptoms. If you have any of the following symptoms, you may have a gallbladder problem:

• Pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. They can be sharp or blunt, worse after eating or physical activity.
• Discomfort or discomfort in the gallbladder area.
• Feeling of fullness or heaviness after eating.
• Appetite changes, weight loss without apparent reason.
• Changes in stool such as diarrhea or constipation.
• Heartburn or bitterness in the mouth.
• Icteric skin or eye tones.

If you experience more than one of these symptoms, it is recommended that you see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Your doctor may perform a variety of tests, including an ultrasound of your gallbladder, blood tests, and more.

It is important to remember that only professional medical advice can accurately determine the presence and cause of gallbladder disease. Do not self-medicate and contact a specialist for qualified help.

Treatment of gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease is a serious problem that requires comprehensive and timely treatment. Gallbladder disorders can cause a variety of symptoms and complications, so it’s important to see a specialist for expert help.

Main causes of gallbladder disease:

• Gallstone disease
• Chronic cholecystitis
• Biliary dyskinesia
• Obesity
• Hormonal changes

Symptoms of gallbladder disease:

• Pain in the right hypochondrium
• Nausea and vomiting
• Heartburn
• Belching
• Violation of stool

If detected gallbladder disease, the doctor may recommend a variety of treatments. Some of these include:

1. Preparations for the destruction and removal of gallstones
2. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial drugs for the treatment of chronic cholecystitis
3. Medicines for the normalization of the biliary tract
4. Diet with restriction of fatty and fried foods
5. Surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy)

The specific method of treatment will depend on the degree of development of the disease and individual characteristics of the patient. Therefore, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations and undergo regular examinations to monitor the condition of the gallbladder.

If you are experiencing symptoms associated with gallbladder disease, do not delay visiting your doctor. Delay in treatment can lead to complications and worsening of the condition. Remember that the health of your gallbladder is the key to your overall well-being.

Prevention of gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease can be very unpleasant and cause a lot of discomfort. However, by taking some precautions, you can reduce the risk of their occurrence. Here are some tips to help you prevent gallbladder problems:

• Proper nutrition: Try to eat foods rich in fiber, such as vegetables, fruits and cereals. Avoid fatty, spicy and fried foods, as well as excessive consumption of salt and sugar.
• Moderate alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk of gallbladder disease. Therefore, it is recommended to consume alcohol in moderation.
• Weight management: Avoid overweight and strive to maintain a healthy body weight. Obesity can contribute to the development of gallstones.
• Physical activity: Regular exercise such as walking, swimming, or yoga can help improve gallbladder function and overall health.
• Avoid stress: Stress can be one of the causes of gallbladder problems. So try to avoid stressful situations and pay attention to relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing.

It is important to remember that these recommendations are general and may not apply to everyone. Therefore, before taking any measures to prevent gallbladder disease, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Consequences of gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease can lead to serious consequences that can significantly impair the patient’s quality of life. Here are some of them:

• Gallstone disease: Long-term gallbladder dysfunction produces stones that can cause severe pain and lead to complications such as obstruction of the bile ducts.
• Cholecystitis: inflammation of the gallbladder, which can be caused by infection or blockage of the bile ducts. Cholecystitis is accompanied by severe pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen, fever, and other symptoms.
• Jaundice: gallbladder disease can cause obstruction of the flow of bile, which leads to an increase in the level of yellow pigment in the blood and causes an icteric tint to the skin and mucous membranes.
• Pancreatitis: inflammation of the pancreas, which can be caused by blockage of the bile ducts by stones. Pancreatitis is characterized by severe pain in the upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting.

If symptoms of gallbladder disease appear, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Late treatment can lead to the development of serious complications and deterioration of the patient’s condition.

Q&A:

What symptoms may indicate gallbladder disease?

The main symptoms of gallbladder disease can be acute or chronic pain in the right hypochondrium, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, belching, upset stool, yellowness of the skin and sclera, fever, general weakness and fatigue.

What causes gallbladder disease?

The main causes of gallbladder disease can be the formation of stones in the gallbladder (cholelithiasis), inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis), impaired cholesterol metabolism, impaired functioning of the gallbladder and its contractions, impaired secretion of bile, the presence of infection or parasites, and genetic predisposition.

What factors can contribute to the development of gallbladder disease?

The development of gallbladder disease can be facilitated by factors such as malnutrition (frequent and abundant consumption of fatty, fried, spicy, spicy foods), a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, impaired cholesterol metabolism, disruption of the digestive system, the presence of other diseases (for example, diabetes), taking certain medications, heredity.

What diagnostic methods are used for gallbladder disease?

Diagnosis of gallbladder disease can be done using ultrasonography (ultrasound) of the gallbladder, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radiography with contrast agent, laparoscopy.

Related videos:

Gall bladder surprises

Enroll

July 06, 2017

Gastroenterologist, hepatologist at GMS Clinic Sergey Vyalov gave an interview to the Internet portal stopkilo.net and spoke about the problems and treatment of the gallbladder.

Introduction

The gallbladder is one of the “special” organs that can literally prepare surprises. Such surprises are an unexpected attack of severe pain in the abdomen on the right somewhere under the ribs, which we call “biliary colic. ”

The gallbladder serves as a kind of reservoir that collects and stores bile until the right moment, and then throws it away for the needs of digestion. If bile begins to be poorly “stored” or “stagnate”, then its composition changes. Then it all depends on how far the process has gone…

But it all starts with a violation of the normal contractions of the gallbladder – it contracts either too quickly and strongly, or too weakly and slowly. Both of these disorders lead to improper bile secretion and changes in the composition of bile, and in the long term – to the formation of stones.

Most often, this is caused by nutritional errors when we overeat or eat a lot of fatty, fried, smoked foods. In some people, an additional contribution to the development of gallbladder diseases is made by high cholesterol, hormonal imbalance, taking certain medications, and hereditary predisposition. Stress, emotional and nervous tension also leads to dysfunction of the gallbladder. That is why the last stage, cholelithiasis, more often affects women after a critical age. Although in recent years, gallbladder diseases have become much “younger” and are very often detected even in children!

Sensations located at the top of the abdomen (in the stomach area) or under the ribs on the right are most often associated with a disease of the stomach or gallbladder, and in rare cases even the intestines. It is very difficult to distinguish them from each other on your own. When examining the abdomen, the doctor can easily determine what exactly led to the onset of symptoms. A connection with food intake can suggest: if symptoms appear after eating, the problem is most likely related to the gallbladder or stomach. If the symptoms do not have a clear connection with eating, there is reason to assume a problem with the intestines.

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of gallbladder disease are discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen or under the ribs on the right, often associated with eating. Many people experience mild nausea, a bitter taste in the mouth, heaviness under the ribs, or an aching sensation. Most often they occur when the gallbladder is provoked by fatty, fried, spicy or smoked foods. However, they can also develop a few days after taking antibiotics, antifungal and antiviral drugs.

Chronic cholecystitis develops for a long time and slowly, often manifests itself as discomfort and pain. Acute cholecystitis has more severe symptoms, the temperature may even rise, pains make you sit bent over and hold on to your right side, sometimes even radiating to the back. And I want to go to the doctor. Most often, these symptoms are quite typical in most people.

Cholecystitis, in its essence, is an inflammation of the gallbladder, which is accompanied by both a violation of its contractions and a violation of bile secretion.

It is the violation of normal bile secretion that leads to an increase in pressure in the bladder, concentration and thickening of bile. It begins to gather into clots, flakes and lumps appear, which crystallize in the form of stones in the bubble. If cholecystitis is not treated, it can become acute or stones will appear in the bladder. We call this sequential change of stages the “bilious continuum”.

Lifestyle does NOT significantly affect the condition of the gallbladder or the development of an inflammatory process in it. Of greater importance is nutrition, as well as taking medications that are excreted along with bile.

The relationship of stress and increased anxiety with contractions of the gallbladder is important. Very often, an emotional breakdown or a nervous period can lead to the development of a disease.

Recommendations

For diseases of the gallbladder, table number 5 is recommended. It is also used in the treatment of diseases of the liver and pancreas. Nutrition for diseases of the stomach or intestines is different from the nutrition needed for diseases of the gallbladder. The main restrictions apply to fatty, fried, spicy and smoked foods, as well as alcohol. We have developed a special application for the phone “Table No. 5”, which covers nutrition issues in detail.

Cold and hunger treat the most acute period of acute pancreatitis, which sometimes occurs due to cholelithiasis. Therefore, there is such a stereotype. Also, hunger is sometimes used for biliary colic. With an exacerbation of cholecystitis (not acute cholecystitis!) The standard of care is drugs that restore contractions of the gallbladder and ursodeoxycholic acid drugs (ursosan). In the initial period of exacerbation, antispasmodics are used (mebeverine, drotaverine, gimecromon). Further, it is possible to use prokinetics (Itomed), but they are not used for cholelithiasis, only in the early stages. These drugs normalize bile secretion. It is strictly forbidden to use cholagogue without ultrasound results!

This recommendation is not a treatment guide – the doctor must prescribe the treatment after the examination!

In some cases, indeed, diseases of other organs can lead to the development of cholecystitis. Duodenitis is the most common disease that, due to swelling of the “exit” of the biliary tract, leads to a violation of bile secretion. This increases the pressure in the gallbladder, promotes inflammation or the formation of stones. Also contributing to cholecystitis and gallbladder dysfunction is an excess of bacteria in the intestines, the so-called bacterial overgrowth. This condition can occur after food poisoning, with long-term constipation or prolonged diarrhea, as well as with inflammatory bowel disease and diverticular disease.

Source: stopkilo.net

Gastroenterologist
Hepatologist

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January 25, 2023

Colonoscopy and gastroscopy – how to overcome the fear of such procedures?

Flexible probes and miniature chambers. Endoscopic technologies have brought medicine to a qualitatively new level. They are used both in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of diseases. For doctors, this is not only convenient, but also the most informative method of examination. However, patients view such procedures differently. For them, comfort and painlessness come first. For many, the prospect of inserting a probe into the esophagus or intestines is alarming and even frightening. Is it worth it to be afraid, the endoscopist of the GMS Hospital clinic, candidate of medical sciences, doctor of the highest category Victoria Zalesova will tell.

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October 11, 2022

Is intermittent fasting the best way to lose weight and the cure for all diseases or destruction of the body?

Proponents of therapeutic fasting claim that it helps to rejuvenate the body and almost defeat cancer: in the absence of nutrition, the body begins to “eat itself”, destroying damaged and diseased cells. Intermittent fasting has been suggested as the safest diet without limiting portions. Elena Kasimtseva, family doctor and gastroenterologist at GMS Clinic, will tell you whether fasting really cleanses the body and whether it can harm. The text is not complete. You can read the entire article at Novy Ochag.

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October 08, 2022

Sorbents – what they are and how they help with poisoning

Food is not always fuel for our body. Violations of the technological process during its preparation is fraught with poisoning. How to deal with food poisoning? Sorbents help to cope with intoxications of various nature. What are sorbents and why are they needed in a home first aid kit? Nurmatov Shavkat Sharibzhanovich, a gastroenterologist at GMS Clinic, will help you understand the types of medications and their regimens.

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May 12, 2022

What is salmonellosis?

This is an infectious disease caused by bacteria of the genus Salmonella.

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March 10, 2022

I feel sick – what should I do? Doctors’ advice and simple ways to help yourself

Text not fully provided. You can read the entire article on RBC Style. Discomfort in the stomach, increased sweating and dizziness are frequent companions of nausea. We understand why nausea occurs and how to get rid of it.

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February 21, 2022

What is Crohn’s disease and how much does it cost to treat

How I spent more than 700,000 ₽ on treatment.

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More articles by this author

February 21, 2022

Gastric ulcer: causes of the disease, methods of treatment and prevention

GMS Clinic gastroenterologist Sergey Vyalov gave an interview to the-challenger.ru Internet portal

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article

February 21, 2022

Constipation in children under one year old

GMS Clinic gastroenterologist Sergey Vyalov gave an interview to parents.ru Internet portal

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article

February 21, 2022

Overeaten: how to help yourself when overeating.