By holding bile, the gallbladder, a thumb-shaped organ below the liver, contributes significantly to digestion. Gallbladder disease, on the other hand, might result from an irritated gallbladder. Gallstones, which can block the duct connecting to the gallbladder, are a common cause of this illness.
Cholesterol stones and pigment stones are the two different forms of gallstones. More frequently occurring are cholesterol stones, which can be as little as a golf ball or as large as a grain of salt.
Indigestion, vomiting, jaundice, excruciating upper abdominal pain, backaches, pain in the area between the shoulder blades, and nausea are all signs of gallbladder disease.
Several tests, including abdominal ultrasound or CT scan, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), and gallbladder radionuclide scan, may be used to identify gallstones. In addition, blood tests for pancreatic enzymes, liver function, and bilirubin levels may be performed.
Surgery is frequently a part of gallbladder disease treatment options. The most popular method is a surgeon's laparoscopic gallbladder ectomy. Although it may take several years for them to completely remove the stones, drugs that dissolve cholesterol gallstones may be recommended if surgery is not an option.
Complications of gallbladder surgery (cholecystectomy):
Pain and discomfort in the incision site.
Infection.
Bleeding.
Reaction to anesthesia.
Injury to the bile duct or small intestine.
Development of hernias at the incision site.
Formation of bile stones.
Persistent diarrhea.
Liver pain after gallbladder surgery can occur due to several reasons such as:
Bile duct injury
Bile leak
Postoperative infection
Hematoma or fluid accumulation near the liver.
It is advisable to consult a doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.
Benefits of gallbladder surgery:
Relief from symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting caused by gallstones.
Improved digestion.
Reduced risk of gallbladder cancer.
Fewer complications associated with gallstones in the long-term.
Ability to return to normal activities more quickly compared to non-surgical treatments.
Improved quality of life.
Reduced risk of further health problems related to the gallbladder.
Adopting a suitable diet can help reduce the risk of gallstone formation. Here are some dietary recommendations:
Foods to include:
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits
Apricots, berries, and guava
Cold-water fish
Vegetable juices such as beet, cucumber, celery, carrot, and beet greens
Fresh garlic for liver cleansing
Grapes and organic grape juice
Low-fat cottage cheese
Lots of water
Pickles
Foods to avoid:
Beetroot and cucumbers
Eggs, pork, onions, milk, beans, nuts, and coffee
Fried foods and hydrogenated fats
Saturated fats like clarified butter and margarine
Sweet potatoes and ripe tomatoes
Black tea
Chocolate, ice cream, and dairy products
Cabbage, cauliflower, radish, and turnips
Wheat and barley (reduce carbohydrate intake)
Legumes and beans
Alcohol
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