Gallbladder Conditions
Most people will never notice they have a gallbladder. It quietly performs its tasks with efficiency. However, when a problem arises, it can suddenly make itself known. There is a range of conditions that can affect this small organ.
Gallstones
A gallstone is a hardened deposit of digestive fluid that forms in the gallbladder. They can vary significantly in size. You may not even notice a small one, while a large one can cause several problems. Large gallstones can cause blockage in the gallbladder and its tubes. When this happens, you may experience some of the following symptoms:
- Sudden and growing pain in the abdomen (upper right side or center)
- Sensation of back pain between shoulder blades
- Pain in the area of your right shoulder
- Nausea and vomiting
If you experience any of the above, we recommend you come in as soon as possible. With a professional examination, you can understand what is happening and receive proper treatment.
Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis refers to gallbladder inflammation. In fact, it can be a result of blockage from gallstones. Typically, it occurs when one of your bile ducts becomes blocked. Bile then builds up inside and causes problems. The symptoms are the same as those mentioned under gallstones.
Cholangitis
Cholangitis occurs when one of your bile ducts becomes infected. If the tube connecting your liver and gallbladder becomes infected, it can lead to a range of problems.
Symptoms include:
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Fever and chills
- Yellow tone to skin and eyes
- Nausea/vomiting
- Low blood pressure (tiredness and less alert)
- Darker urine
- Clay-colored stool
- Bile Duct Cancer
Though very rare, this type of cancer can occur in some patients. It grows very slowly, so many patients do not catch it early on. If you have a family history of this condition, we advise regular visits to screen for it. It occurs in the tubes or “ducts” that lead to and from the gallbladder. Symptoms are similar to that of cholangitis.
Gallbladder Cancer
Also quite rare, cancer can form in the gallbladder itself. Early stages present few symptoms, so it can be difficult to catch without an expert’s examination.
Gallbladder Treatments
The treatment for your gallbladder will depend on your symptoms and condition. Most conditions can be treated quickly with the help of a gallbladder specialist. And Dr. Tabib can provide you with information and help to prevent future issues. In many cases, surgery can be performed to treat the condition. Only in extreme instances would the gallbladder need to be removed.
Should I See a Gallbladder Specialist?
Self-diagnosing an internal condition is risky. The reason is that many internal conditions have similar symptoms, and some are more dangerous than others. The only way to know for certain what is causing your symptoms is to visit a specialist.
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms for the above conditions, we recommend you visit a gallbladder specialist right away. Not only will Dr. Tabib be able to provide a diagnosis, but he will develop a plan to treat your unique needs.
Schedule an Appointment Today
If you have any symptoms of a gallbladder condition, schedule an appointment today. Dr. Tabib will provide the highest quality of care and treatment at his practice in Los Angeles. Though small, the gallbladder is an important part of our bodies and should not be neglected. Call us today to learn more about treatments we offer for various internal conditions.
