The bad symptoms of a bad gallbladder can range from mild discomfort to severe, life-threatening complications. These symptoms often indicate underlying issues such as gallstones, gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis), or gallbladder dysfunction.
Here's a breakdown of the symptoms, ranging from common to more severe:
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Severe Pain: This is often located in the upper right abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back or right shoulder. It can be constant or come in waves (biliary colic), often triggered by fatty meals.
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Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms frequently accompany gallbladder pain, contributing to overall discomfort.
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Fever and Chills: These suggest a possible infection in the gallbladder (acute cholecystitis) or bile ducts (cholangitis).
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Jaundice: This yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes indicates a blockage of the bile duct, preventing bilirubin (a waste product) from being properly excreted.
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Changes in Stool and Urine:
- Dark Urine: Occurs when bilirubin builds up in the bloodstream and is excreted through the kidneys.
- Light-Colored or Clay-Colored Stools: This happens when bile, which gives stool its normal color, is unable to reach the intestines due to a blockage.
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Rapid Heartbeat and Abrupt Blood Pressure Drop: These are signs of a severe infection (sepsis) that can occur if a gallbladder infection is left untreated. This is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention.
| Symptom | Description | Possible Cause |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Right Abdominal Pain | Intense, potentially radiating pain; can be constant or intermittent. | Gallstones, Cholecystitis (Gallbladder Inflammation) |
| Nausea & Vomiting | Feeling sick to your stomach, potentially expelling stomach contents. | Gallbladder inflammation, blockage of bile ducts |
| Fever & Chills | Elevated body temperature accompanied by shivering. | Infection of the Gallbladder or Bile Ducts (Cholecystitis or Cholangitis) |
| Jaundice | Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. | Bile duct blockage preventing bilirubin excretion. |
| Dark Urine | Urine appears unusually dark in color. | Bilirubin buildup in the bloodstream excreted via the kidneys. |
| Light-Colored/Clay-Colored Stools | Stools appear pale or clay-like. | Blockage preventing bile from reaching the intestines. |
| Rapid Heartbeat/Low Blood Pressure | Can indicate sepsis, a severe response to infection. Requires immediate medical attention. | Untreated Gallbladder Infection leading to a systemic infection. |
It's crucial to consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are severe or persistent. Early diagnosis and treatment of gallbladder problems can prevent serious complications.
