Gall Bladder Symptoms

The gall bladder is an organ in the human body, which absorbs all the inorganic bile salts and water. It also aids in the release of digestive enzymes and bile, through contracting movements. Gall bladder problems are very common in people of all ages living across the world. In the United States alone, there are about 25 million people who are suffering from gall bladder problems, with around one million new cases being diagnosed every year. Fortunately, most problems that affect the gallbladder can be treated, with the help of timely intervention.

People can go on for years without realizing that they are suffering from conditions related to the gall bladder. Therefore it is important for people to realize what the different gall bladder problems symptoms are, so that they can seek medical attention in time. Women are more prone to this condition than men are and though gall bladder symptoms in women are not very different from those seen in men with problems, there are a few small differences, which people should be aware of. Women are more likely to suffer from changes in skin color, chronic diarrhea and vomiting, as compared to men. However, certain gall bladder symptoms like pain below the rib cage, nausea, constipation and excess gas are common to both genders.

Unfortunately, the risks of gall bladder problems symptoms in women are higher during pregnancy, because of hormonal changes and increased bile production. Women who are pregnant should know if they are suffering from any health condition that could affect digestion and the growth of their baby. Therefore, it is important for them to know what the gall bladder symptoms during pregnancy are. Symptoms like nausea, vomiting, excess gas and strong pain under the ribs should be checked by a doctor, even though most of them are normal pregnancy symptoms.

One of the more serious gall bladder problems includes cancer, in which case, immediate treatment is required. Gall bladder cancer symptoms include pain in the abdomen, bloating, yellowing of the skin as well as the eyes, unexplained weight loss, fever, nausea, loss of appetite and itchiness. At times, the gallbladder may need to be removed, in case other treatment options are not very feasible. Most people are concerned of gall bladder removal symptoms, which could include decrease in bile secretion, chronic pain in the right side, cramps, constipation, bloating, nausea, diarrhea or heartburn.

Gall Bladder Attack

Several people suffer from gall bladder attack symptoms, which is an indication of a disorder. In most instances, these symptoms are seen when people overeat or eat a high amount of fat. Some of the most commonly seen gall bladder attack symptoms include chest pain (on the right side mainly), gas, nausea, bitter fluid in the mouth after meals, vomiting and abdominal tenderness. Some people are incapable of walking, sitting up straight or bending over, because of the amount of pain they experience. These symptoms may last for anywhere between 15 minutes and 15 hours. For immediate gall bladder attack relief, people are advised to lie down, with the left side of the body on top of a pillow. Having a bowel movement could also help in some cases.

The symptoms may turn more severe, if gall bladder attack treatment is not administered in time. There are certain medicines that can bring about gall bladder attack relief on a long term basis. Many home remedies, like the consumption of tea with flaxseed, or cucumber and cucumber juice can also be very helpful. Alternately, doctors may also advise a patient to go in for a surgery, so that the distressed organ can be removed.

Gall Bladder Problems

Most people, especially women are keen on knowing what causes gall bladder problems, so that they can avoid the triggers during the course of pregnancy. There are certain factors, like eating and lifestyle habits that lead to gall bladder attacks but the exact causes of gall bladder problems may vary, based on the type of problem.

One of the main concerns in women is the treatment of gall bladder problems in pregnancy, as surgery is out of the question and they are not allowed to take several types of medication. Fortunately, many home remedies can help reduce the frequency and intensity of the attacks, as well as their symptoms. Pregnant women are also encouraged to follow a gall bladder problems diet, which is low in fat and is quite healthy. Foods that are included in a gall bladder problems diet consist of fresh fruits, vegetables, low fat dairy, whole grain products, lean meat and a lot of water.

Women who are planning to get pregnant after getting the gallbladder removed should consult their doctors before doing so. This is because there are certain gall bladder problems after removal, which could be difficult to bear during pregnancy and therefore can be avoided, with a medical experts help.

Gall Bladder Causes

One of the most common gall bladder infection causes is the development of gallstones. Acute cholecystitis is also a cause of the inflammation in the bladder; this in turn could lead to an infection. Middle aged people, who are overweight, are more likely to suffer from gallbladder infections and therefore, obesity could also be one of the gall bladder infection causes.

There are several factors that could trigger off the formation of gallstones, which could further lead to an infection. Some of the most common gall bladder stones causes include a poor diet, diabetes, aging, obesity, fasting, biliary tract infections, use of certain medication and hormones. Of course, in some people, the problem of gallstones could also be heredity.

Gall Bladder Treatment

Gall bladder treatment options may vary based on the type of problem, its severity as well as the patients age and overall health. Infected gall bladder treatment could include the use of certain medication prescribed by the doctor. In some cases, patients may also be advised to use home remedies and follow a specific diet. The gallbladder diet treatment will reduce the uncomfortable symptoms such as gallbladder fullness, nausea, bloating, vomiting and so on. Since there are reports stating that there is a correlation between gallbladder and stress, relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation and massage therapy may also be suggested, in addition to gallbladder diet treatment. At times, doctors may suggest a surgery, in case the treatment does not seem to be very effective. Gall bladder cancer treatment may be a bit more complex as compared to other conditions. Some of the options include:

Gallbladder removal surgery
Surgery to remove gallbladder and a part of the liver
Procedures for relieving blocked bile ducts
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy

Certain treatment for gall bladder disease could also cause hair loss in individuals. Self-treatment in gallbladder problems should be strictly avoided. It is important to seek medical attention for any conditions related to the gallbladder.

Submitted on January 16, 2014