What is a “gallbladder attack”?

Generally, gallbladder symptoms are referred to as an "attacks" because they occur suddenly. The typical gallbladder attack includes:

• Steady, severe pain in the upper abdomen that increases and can last  several hours.
• Pain in the back between the shoulder blades.
• Pain under the right shoulder.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Gallbladder attacks often follow the intake of a fatty meal, may occur during the night and can be accompanied by excessive vomiting. 
• Other gallbladder symptoms include:
• Abdominal bloating.
• Intolerance of fatty foods.
• Belching.
• Gas.
• Indigestion.
• Nausea, vomiting.
• Fever.
• The following symptoms indicate that you should seek medical care immediately:
• Sweating.
• Chills.
• Abdominal pain.
• Low-grade fever.
• Yellowish tint of the skin or whites of the eyes.
• Clay-colored stools.

Gallbladder Treatment

The most common treatment for gallbladder symptoms is a surgical procedure referred to as a cholecystectomy.  This procedure used to require a large abdominal incision to remove the gallbladder. However, this procedure is now commonly performed laparoscopically.  There are still rare cases where an open incision must be used.  The laparoscopic procedure can be performed at a surgery center and requires only very small incisions.  Laparoscopic procedures promote a speedy recovery time and, in most cases, the patient does not experience much pain.

What to Expect if Surgery is Required

Patients are encouraged to engage in light activity while at home after surgery. 

Dr. Cole will determine your individual recovery time at the seven day post-operative visit.

Post-operative discomfort is usually mild.  Rarely, patients will require pain medication.

Most patients are able to get back to their normal activities within seven days after surgery and are able to fully resume their regular lifestyle after one month.