Gallbladder Disease – GI Solutions

What is Gallbladder Disease?

Gallbladder and biliary tract disease refers to a range of conditions that affect the gallbladder, bile ducts, and associated structures. The gallbladder is a small organ located under the liver that stores bile, which helps in digestion. Common conditions include gallstones (hardened deposits of bile), inflammation (cholecystitis), and bile duct blockages, all of which can lead to pain, digestive issues, and complications if untreated.

The most common forms of gallbladder and biliary tract disease include:

Gallstones

Low-functioning gallbladder

Bile duct blockages

Bile Reflux

Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)

Cholestasis

Gallbladder Cancer

Gallbladder Polyps

What are the Causes of Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disease?

The primary causes vary but commonly include:

Gallstones

These are the most common cause and develop when substances in bile, such as cholesterol, crystallize.

Inflammation

Infections or blockages can cause inflammation in the gallbladder or bile ducts.

Infections

Bacterial infections can sometimes spread to the biliary system.

Tumors

Though rare, tumors can block bile flow and cause biliary tract issues.

What are the Risk Factors for Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disease?

Several factors may increase your risk:

Age: Gallbladder problems are more common in people over 40.

Gender: Women are more likely to develop gallstones.

Diet: High-fat, low-fiber diets may contribute to gallstone formation.

Obesity: Being overweight is a significant risk factor.

Family History: If your family has a history of gallbladder disease, you may be more likely to develop it.

Medical Conditions: Diabetes, liver disease, and certain blood disorders may elevate your risk.

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What are the Symptoms of Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disease?

Because of the proximity of the gallbladder to your ribs, and the usage of the gallbladder in your digestive system, there can be a wide range of physical symptoms. However, because there is such a wide range, the diagnosis of your gallbladder disease cannot be determined without tests from your doctors.

Some of the most common symptoms include:

Nausea

Vomiting

Dizziness

Diarrhea

Pain under the rib cage on the right side or between the shoulder blades.

Bitter fluid coming up after eating

Indigestion

If you are experiencing any, or a combination of these symptoms, it’s important to contact Dr. Erlich to discuss next steps.

Gallbladder and Biliary Tract Disease Treatment

Once officially diagnosed with gallbladder disease, your treatment options will depend heavily on the severity of your pain. Initially, your doctor may recommend dietary changes, exercise, or the use of gallstone dissolving drugs.

If the pain is more severe, you will be recommended gallbladder removal surgery. While both will remove the gallbladder, an open cholecystectomy will be much more invasive than a laparoscopic cholecystectomy. This surgery will certainly help to alleviate pain, but you may still suffer from a few ongoing symptoms afterwards.

Schedule your Appointment

Dr. Jonathan Erlich is a highly trained gastroenterologist with extensive experience diagnosing and treating patients with Hepatitis C. Call (773) 631-2728 to request an appointment or fill in the form below.

Office

7447 W Talcott,
Suite 209
Chicago, IL 60631

Telephone No.

(773) 631-2728

To Book an Appointment, Call:

(872) 328-4880

Or click on the link below to fill the form.

Monday to Friday between 8.00 a.m. and 5.00 p.m (CET)