What Is The Gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a hollow organ of our digestive system that stores the bile produced by the liver while we are fasting and releases it into the intestine when we eat.
Where Is The Gallbladder Located?
It is a pear-shaped structure located in the upper right part of the abdominal cavity, attached to the underside of the liver. It connects to the main bile duct, which extends from the liver to the intestine, via its own small duct.
What Is The Function Of The Gallbladder?
The gallbladder does not produce anything itself. While fasting, it stores the bile produced by the liver. When food is consumed, especially fatty foods, the gallbladder releases the stored bile into the intestine to aid digestion. In this sense, it can be considered an organ that assists digestion.
Common Gallbladder Conditions
1. Gallstones: This is the most common gallbladder problem. The gallbladder concentrates bile while storing it. If this concentrating ability is impaired, sediment, sludge, or small and large stones can form within the gallbladder. These may remain asymptomatic or cause symptoms such as pain (which may radiate to the back), nausea, and discomfort after meals.
2. Gallbladder polyps: These are benign growths that originate from the gallbladder wall. They usually do not cause symptoms, but they can grow over time. If they exceed 1 cm in size, the risk of cancer development increases.
3. Cholecystitis: This is an inflammatory condition that usually occurs when gallstones block the cystic duct. It causes severe upper right abdominal pain and fever, often requiring emergency surgery.
4. Obstructive jaundice: If small stones (3-5 mm) from the gallbladder pass into the main bile duct and obstruct bile flow from the liver, jaundice may occur. If these stones pass into the intestine on their own, the problem resolves.
5. Gallstone pancreatitis: If a stone in the main bile duct also obstructs the opening of the pancreatic duct, it can lead to inflammation of the pancreas. While most cases are mild, about 25% can cause severe health complications.
6. Gallbladder cancer: Although rare, it is a highly aggressive tumor. If not detected early, it can spread to the liver and surrounding tissues.
Signs That Indicate Gallbladder Problems
- Persistent pain in the upper right abdomen, especially after meals
- Nausea or vomiting, particularly after eating fatty foods
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)( if stones falls into the main bile duct)
- Bloating and digestive discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
How Are Gallbladder Dıseases Treated?
The most common treatment is cholecystectomy, which is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Removing the gallbladder does not cause any deficiency, as it does not produce bile but only serves as a storage organ. There are no dietary restrictions or lifestyle limitations after gallbladder removal. In fact, people who previously had symptoms related to fatty foods, chocolate, or eggs can consume these foods comfortably after surgery.
- Gallstones: The only treatment is cholecystectomy. Consider the following:
- If stones cause symptoms: Cholecystectomy should be performed at the most appropriate time.
- If stones are asymptomatic but numerous and/or small: Cholecystectomy should be performed in due time, as small stones may migrate into the main bile duct.
- Large stones: They may increase the long-term risk of cancer (?). Surgery should be considered.
- 1-2 cm stones (without symptoms): Can be monitored, but they may eventually cause symptoms.
- Gallbladder polyps: Surgery is recommended if polyps approach 1 cm in size or grow over time (due to cancer risk).
- Cholecystitis: Requires emergency surgery.
- Obstructive jaundice: If jaundice and suspicion of bile duct stones persist, the initial step is ERCP (endoscopic removal of stones from the duct), followed by cholecystectomy.
- Gallstone pancreatitis: Initially, pancreatitis is treated, followed by duct clearance and/or cholecystectomy.
- Gallbladder cancer: If detected early and the tumor has not invaded beyond the gallbladder wall, treatment involves cholecystectomy, sometimes including the removal of adjacent liver tissue.
Best Practices for Maintaining Gallbladder Health
1. Follow a Healthy Diet: A diet rich in fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats can reduce gallstone risk. Avoid highly processed foods, excessive sugar, and saturated fats.
2. Maintain an Active Lifestyle :Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduces the risk of gallbladder disease.
4. Avoid rapid weight gain or loss
5. Stay Hydrated :Drinking plenty of water supports bile flow and overall digestive function.
6. Routine Health Check-ups: Regular medical check-ups can help detect gallbladder problems early, ensuring timely treatment and preventing complications.
7. Monitor Your Risk Factors: If you have a family history of gallbladder disease, diabetes, or high cholesterol, consult a specialist to discuss preventive measures.
Why Choose Liv Hospital for Gallbladder Care?
At Liv Hospital, our specialized gastroenterology team offers expert diagnosis and cutting-edge treatment for gallbladder disorders. From non-invasive diagnostic tests to advanced surgical procedures, we ensure personalized care tailored to each patient’s needs. If you are experiencing symptoms or want to maintain optimal digestive health, consult our specialists today.
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
