Gallbladder Conditions

The gallbladder is a small organ located beneath the liver. Its main function is to store bile and release it into the small intestine during digestion.
When bile becomes concentrated or its flow is blocked, gallstones or other gallbladder disorders may develop.

1. Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)

Gallstones are solid deposits formed from bile components. They may remain symptom-free or cause pain when they block bile ducts.

Common causes include:

• High cholesterol levels in bile

• Excess bilirubin

• Poor gallbladder emptying

• Obesity or rapid weight loss

• High-fat diets

• Family history

• Diabetes or liver-related conditions

Symptoms may include:

• Sudden upper abdominal pain or back pain

• Nausea and vomiting

• Bloating or indigestion

• Fever or chills (if infection develops)

• Yellowing of the skin or eyes in advanced cases

Diagnosis includes:

• Ultrasound imaging

• CT scan or MRI when needed

• Blood tests to assess infection or bile duct blockage

Treatment options depend on symptoms and severity and may include:

• Observation for symptom-free stones

• Medication in selected cases

• Surgical removal for recurrent or painful gallstones

2. Cholecystitis (Gallbladder Inflammation)

Cholecystitis occurs when a gallstone blocks the bile duct, causing inflammation and infection.

Symptoms include:

• Persistent upper abdominal pain

• Fever or chills

• Nausea and vomiting

• Abdominal tenderness

• Jaundice in severe cases

Diagnosis is confirmed using imaging and blood tests. Treatment may involve medication and monitoring, with surgery recommended in recurrent or chronic cases.

3. Biliary Colic

Biliary colic is caused by temporary blockage of bile flow, leading to sudden abdominal pain that may last for several hours.
If episodes recur, surgical removal of the gallbladder is often advised to prevent further complications.

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a minimally invasive procedure used to remove the gallbladder through small incisions using specialized instruments and a camera. This is the standard surgical approach for symptomatic gallbladder disease.

Benefits include:

• Smaller incisions

• Reduced postoperative discomfort

• Short hospital stay

• Faster recovery

• Lower risk of complications

Most patients can return to normal activities within 1–2 weeks.

After gallbladder removal, bile flows directly from the liver to the intestine, allowing digestion to continue normally.
Most patients experience significant relief from symptoms and improved digestive comfort following recovery.

The cost of gallbladder surgery may vary depending on:

• Clinical condition

• Type of surgery required

• Hospital stay

• Follow-up care

A detailed treatment plan and cost estimate are provided after medical evaluation.

Postoperative care may include:

• Temporary low-fat diet

• Avoiding heavy activity for 7–10 days

• Wound care and hygiene

• Follow-up appointments as advised

Recovery is usually smooth with proper medical guidance and follow-up.

While not all conditions are preventable, risk can be reduced by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Eating a balanced diet

• Avoiding rapid weight loss

• Staying physically active

• Drinking adequate water

• Regular health check-ups and imaging when advised