Gallbladder Issues Are No Laughing Matter

With nearly a million new cases of gallstones and gallbladder disease diagnosed each year in the United States, these conditions are often thought of as rather routine or even pedestrian. For those who suffer from these problems, however, the pain and aftermath makes it clear they are not laughing matters.

The gallbladder itself is a tiny little organ that most other animals on the planet do not have. It serves the sole purpose of storing bile produced by the liver. The organ holds bile in concentration so if a large amount is needed to digest an especially fatty meal, it is available. When the gallbladder has to be removed, however, this reserve is missing from the digestive process. Although the gallbladder isn’t essential for living, it does aid in digestion and its removal can require some adjustments to diet for some time to come.

Gallbladder issues tend to arise when the liquid bile stored in the organ solidifies. This produces what are called gallstones. These tiny, hard deposits can cause intense, radiating pain. They can also get in the way of the gallbladder functioning as it should. When chronic gallbladder issues arise, the cause can be an actual disease of the organ. In any event, stones or gallbladder disease may lead to the need for complete removal of the organ.

Gallbladder surgery is generally performed laparoscopically. This means smaller incisions and an overall procedure that is less invasive. The operation is typically handled on an outpatient basis and requires only a short amount of time to recover from. Patients, however, are likely to find the days, weeks and months following surgery require careful adjustment as the digestive process will change a bit. This is because the bile storage abilities are no longer there. Some patients encounter few problems after surgery, but others may find digestive discomfort remains a concern for some time.

Gallbladder concerns are not a laughing matter. While surgery can remove the culprit, people who undergo it may find their eating habits have to change at least for a time. The removal of intense pain, however, makes the process very worthwhile. If gallbladder issues are concern, be sure to consult with a reputable surgeon for advice.

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Abdominal Surgery Specialists, a part of the Nicholson Clinic, is led by Dr. Nick Nicholson, one of the most experienced laparoscopic surgeons in the country.

We are Abdominal Surgery Specialists, a part of the Nicholson Clinic, led by Dr. Nick Nicholson, one of the most experienced laparoscopic surgeons in the country. Dr. Nicholson has performed over 10,000 minimally invasive procedures.