What is Gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a relatively small organ that has the shape of a pear and is situated just below the liver. It is responsible for the storage of bile, which is a fluid with a yellowish-brown color that aids in the digestion of fats. The liver is responsible for the production of bile, which is then stored in the gallbladder until it is required.
Image Credit: clevelandclinic.org
What is the function of the gallbladder?
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located in the upper right abdomen. It is part of the digestive system and its main function is to store bile, a fluid produced by the liver. Bile helps break down fats in food, making it easier for the body to absorb them. When we eat, especially fatty foods, the gallbladder contracts and releases bile into the small intestine. The bile mixes with the food and helps to break down the fats into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by the body.
What Causes Gallstones?
When we eat, the gallbladder is stimulated to release bile into the small intestine via a duct, where it aids in fat digestion. Gallstones can form when certain substances in the bile are out of balance. These stones can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as an orange. Gallstones can cause no symptoms at all. However, if a stone becomes lodged in the bile duct and prevents bile flow, it can cause severe abdominal pain that can radiate to the back.
Gallstones are more common in women, people over 60, and Native Americans. Other risk factors include obesity, rapid weight loss, certain medical conditions such as Crohn’s disease, and certain medications such as cholesterol-lowering drugs.
Pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen that comes on suddenly and is severe, and can continue for several hours is the most typical sign of a gallstone attack. In addition to these symptoms, you may also experience bloating, belching, indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should make an appointment with your primary care physician as soon as possible because they might be indicators of other serious medical conditions.
There are two types of surgery used to treat gallstones: cholecystectomy and lithotripsy. Cholecystectomy is the removal of the gallbladder and stones through surgery. Lithotripsy uses sound waves to break up stones so they can pass out of the body through the digestive system.
Conclusion
Most people with gallstones don’t have any symptoms and don’t need treatment. If you have symptomatic gallstones, there are two types of surgery used to treat them: cholecystectomy and lithotripsy. Cholecystectomy involves removing your gallbladder and stones through surgery, while lithotripsy uses sound waves to break up stones so they can pass out of your body through your digestive system.
Gallstone attacks are sudden, severe abdominal pain lasting several hours. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with gallstones or have been diagnosed with this condition, it is important to seek medical attention. The best gallbladder surgeon in Ahmedabad can help you get relief from your symptoms and may even be able to remove your gallbladder if that is necessary. Don’t wait – contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
