gallbladder on one side

Overview

The gallbladder is a small organ under your liver that helps digest fat. Sometimes it can cause pain, usually on the right side of your upper belly. This pain may be due to gallstones or inflammation.

Yes, gallbladder problems are common, especially gallstones. About 10-15% of adults in developed countries have gallstones.

It can affect anyone, but it is more common in women, people over 40, those who are overweight, and people of certain ethnic backgrounds.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Sudden, sharp pain in the upper right belly or between the shoulder blades
• Pain that gets worse after eating fatty foods
• Nausea or vomiting
• Pain that lasts from a few minutes to several hours

Symptoms in children

• Abdominal pain that may be hard to describe
• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) is more common in children

Symptoms in older adults

• Less specific pain
• Loss of appetite
• Fever or chills without obvious cause
• Confusion or weakness (may be a sign of infection)

Causes

Main causes

• Gallstones (hardened deposits in the gallbladder)
• Inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis)
• Blockage of the bile duct
• Infection in the gallbladder

Risk factors

• Being female
• Age over 40
• Being overweight or obese
• Rapid weight loss
• Eating a high-fat, low-fiber diet
• Certain medical conditions like diabetes or liver disease

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have severe pain that does not go away
• If you have fever or chills
• If you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have mild pain that keeps coming back, especially after meals

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, examine your belly, and may order tests.

Tests that may be done

• Ultrasound (a painless scan using sound waves to see the gallbladder)
• Blood tests to check for infection or blockages
• HIDA scan (a special scan to see how the gallbladder works)
• CT or MRI scan in some cases

What to expect at your appointment

You will likely have an ultrasound first. The test is painless and takes about 30 minutes. If gallstones are found, your doctor will discuss treatment options.

Treatment

Treatment depends on your symptoms and the cause. Many people with gallstones and no symptoms do not need treatment. If you have pain or complications, options include lifestyle changes, medicines, or surgery to remove the gallbladder.

Self-care at home

• Eat a low-fat diet
• Avoid fatty or fried foods
• Gradually increase fiber in your diet
• Stay at a healthy weight
• Ask your doctor about pain relief options

Medical treatments

Doctors may prescribe medications to help dissolve certain types of gallstones, but this can take months and stones may return. For infections, antibiotics may be given. If you have frequent pain or complications, surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is often recommended. This is usually done with small incisions (laparoscopic surgery) and recovery is quick.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is considered if you have repeated attacks of pain, complications such as infection or blockage, or if the gallbladder is not functioning well. After removal, you can still digest food, but you may need to adjust your diet.

Living with this condition

If you are waiting for treatment or after surgery, listen to your body. Avoid heavy lifting if you had surgery. Gradually return to normal activities.

Lifestyle tips

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals
• Choose lean proteins and whole grains
• Stay hydrated
• Get regular exercise as approved by your doctor

Diet and exercise

A low-fat diet can help reduce gallbladder attacks. Include fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Gentle walking is good after recovery.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Dealing with chronic pain or the need for surgery can be stressful. It's normal to feel anxious. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor.

Prevention

You can reduce your risk by maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet low in fat and high in fiber, and avoiding rapid weight loss.

Complications

If left untreated

• Infection in the gallbladder (cholecystitis) that can become serious
• Blockage of the bile duct leading to jaundice and infection
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Long-term inflammation may increase risk of gallbladder cancer (rare)

Long-term outlook

Most gallbladder problems can be treated successfully. Surgery to remove the gallbladder is very common and has a good outcome. With proper care, most people recover fully and can eat a normal diet.

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