The Gall Of Gallbladder Pain
Sitting just below the liver, the gallbladder is an organ that holds a digestive fluid called bile. The liquid bile helps break down food, specifically fats, in the small intestine. Anyone who’s experienced gallbladder discomfort before can attest to how severe and excruciating the pain can be. If left untreated, gallbladder pain can lead to more severe symptoms. Conservative treatments can help relieve pain in many cases, but for some people, laparoscopic surgery is necessary.
What’s behind your gallbladder pain?
The bile in the gallbladder consists of cholesterol, bile salts, and other trace compounds. Sometimes, the cholesterol and other elements calcify to form gallstones. In most cases, gallstones are tiny and harmless. However, there are times when the stones can become more significant deposits which then become painful. Gallstones can also cause inflammation, leading to a condition called cholecystitis. If the gallstone cannot pass out naturally, infections or pancreatitis can occur.
Signs and symptoms
A gallbladder attack can cause sudden pain in the middle or upper right abdomen. Most describe the pain as sharp and intense, occurring for several hours at a time. Gallbladder pain can also move to the back or shoulder and come on after eating a fatty meal. Other symptoms may include fever, nausea, abdominal tenderness, or vomiting. Over time, some may notice yellowing of the eyes or parts of the skin. Try these 4 immediate and long-term solutions to gallbladder pain.
1. Let’s get heated
With gallbladder pain, the goal is to get relief as soon as possible. Applying heat to the area may bring immediate relief. Use a hot towel, heating pad, or hot water bottle on the right side of the abdomen every 15 minutes. After a few intervals, the inflammation should subside.
2. Try a helpful supplement
Some supplements can help break down or release the contents of the gallbladder. For instance, magnesium is a mineral involved in hundreds of processes in the body, including helping the gallbladder to empty. Turmeric is another supplement known to help relieve gallbladder pain. When combined with a bit of pepper, the curcumin and piperine help empty the organ and reduce inflammation.
3. Take caution with cholesterol
Inflammation of the gallbladder can occur due to poor dietary choices. For example, foods with fats or large meals cooked in seed oils can increase cholesterol. The more cholesterol in the body, the more likely gallstones are to develop. Implementing dietary choices focused on less fat and more fruits and vegetables can help in the long run.
4. Step up your exercise
Working out is one of the best ways to reduce gallbladder attacks. For starters, exercise helps control weight, which can contribute to gallbladder dysfunction. An exercise routine also keeps cholesterol levels under control. Try low-impact activities like yoga, swimming, or cycling.
When to consider surgery
Sometimes, a more invasive method is needed to address severe pain. In this case, a doctor may need to remove the gallbladder using a laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedure. A laparoscopic approach means the surgeon only requires 1-2 buttonhole incisions to reach the gallbladder. Through these minor cuts, the surgeon can remove the organ with minimal damage to the patient. Laparoscopy surgery means shorter recovery time and less pain.
Get pain under control
Discomfort and pain in the right abdominal area can signal a gallbladder attack. Making lifestyle changes can help. However, surgery may be necessary to avoid severe infections if conservative treatments fail to control the pain. The gallbladder is not an essential organ, so people can go on to have a healthy normal life after removal.
