Silent gallstones often go unnoticed until complications arise. Learn how to spot early signs of gallstones and prevent serious gallbladder issues.
It is a common thing for people to experience gallbladder pain and indigestion, which causes many to disregard severe symptoms as just a digestive problem. But it is important to know the difference between the two for your wellbeing. Where indigestion results from eating too much, taking spicy foods or being under stress, then gallbladder problems may signal something more sinister such as gallstones or inflammation of the gallbladder. In this article, we’ll guide you through how to differentiate between discomfort that may be gallbladder related and when it is time to go to the doctor.
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ situated beneath your liver which holds the bile, a digestion juice secreted by the liver. The gallbladder releases bile when you consume foods that contain fats or are rich in fats. Problems occur when bile is unable to move around the body because of obstructions, which are commonly gallstones. When this occurs, it can cause severe pain and many other symptoms that can easily be mistaken for indigestion.
This is because gallbladder pain is felt in the upper right abdomen, the same area that indigestion is experienced. However, there are key differences to watch for:
Indigestion: Mostly leads to upper abdominal burning pain, behind the breastbone, and may be accompanied by bloating and burping.
Gallbladder Pain: Well known as a sudden intense discomfort in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, specifically below the rib line. This pain can shift to your back or the right shoulder.
Indigestion: Usually, it subsides after taking a meal or when the patient has taken some antacids.
Gallbladder Pain: Lasts longer, for several hours, and is unresponsive to over the counter antacids for indigestion.
Indigestion: Most commonly associated with food and particularly after taking a meal especially when we have taken spicy, oily or fatty foods.
Gallbladder Pain: May begin shortly after eating but it can also be unpredictable, even when the person is not eating.
Indigestion: Comes along with burning feeling in the chest, bloating and feeling of fullness.
Gallbladder Pain: May also be associated with nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
However, gallstones are not the only cause of the discomfort in the gallbladder, there are other conditions that can cause pain. Some of these include:
When your doctor thinks you might have a gallbladder problem, he or she may do an ultrasound or blood test or CT scan to be sure. Treatment for gallbladder problems often includes:
Even though indigestion is usually not dangerous, gallbladder pain can signal a problem. Take note of the place, time, and other signs of your pain. If it does continue, seek medical attention in order to receive the correct diagnosis and treatment. Failure to get these signs treated may lead to other complications such as infections or other more serious illnesses. Do not wait until the pain gets to be too much to go out and get help.
If you feel this type of pain in your stomach every now and then, it is wise that you go to Gem Hospital and make an appointment. This is why it is important to get diagnosed early so as to avoid complications and have you back on your feet.
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