The gallbladder is a small organ in the upper abdomen, located beneath the liver. It collects and stores bile, a liquid the liver produces to help digest food in the small intestine. The gallbladder’s role in digestion means that issues can disrupt everyday comfort and health. Gallbladder surgery may be utilized to treat gallbladder issues, such as gallstones.

What Does the Gallbladder Do?

The primary role of the gallbladder is to serve as a storage reservoir for bile. The liver creates bile on a continual basis, which is then stored in the gallbladder until it is needed for digestion. When a person eats, the gallbladder releases stored bile into the small intestine through the bile ducts. Bile helps break down fats and supports the absorption of nutrients during the digestive process. Risk factors can affect the gallbladder’s function. Gallstones can develop and block the gallbladder or bile duct. Risk increases with factors such as being a woman over age 40, a high-fat, low-fiber diet, excess weight, or a sedentary lifestyle.

What Signs Indicate Gallbladder Issues?

Gallstones and gallbladder disease are among the most frequent causes of symptoms. Symptoms indicating gallbladder problems can be disruptive or potentially serious. Some people with gallstones do not experience symptoms, while others may have chronic indigestion or intermittent pain. Common signs and symptoms include:

  • Sharp Pain in the Upper Abdomen: This pain may develop suddenly and is often described as severe.
  • Nausea or Vomiting: Digestive upset often occurs alongside pain.
  • Indigestion: Symptoms such as abdominal fullness, discomfort after eating, and bloating.
  • Fever: May indicate inflammation or infection.
  • Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes if bile flow is blocked.
  • Chills: When associated with fever and pain, chills may point toward an acute inflammatory process.

A blockage in the bile duct may produce more pronounced symptoms and requires timely evaluation. Immediate medical care is necessary if jaundice, constant pain, fever, or chills develop, as these may signal complications.

What Is Gallbladder Surgery?

Gallbladder issues that cause persistent symptoms or complications may not resolve with lifestyle changes or medication. The standard surgical procedure for treating chronic gallbladder problems is cholecystectomy, which is the removal of the gallbladder. This gallbladder surgery can be performed using minimally invasive techniques, such as laparoscopic or robotic-assisted surgery. These procedures involve several small incisions. Specialized instruments and a camera are inserted through these incisions, allowing the surgeon to view and remove the gallbladder with precision.

In certain cases where the gallbladder is severely inflamed, infected, or there are other complications, traditional open surgery may be necessary. Open cholecystectomy requires a larger incision and usually extends the recovery period. After surgery, most people return to normal activities after two weeks. The surgeon will provide individual guidance about resuming typical routines and a post-surgical diet plan. The absence of a gallbladder does not prevent digestion, but some people temporarily experience mild digestive issues as bile flows directly from the liver to the small intestine.

Seek Professional Medical Care

Gallbladder disease can lead to persistent discomfort, pain, or digestive disturbance. Consulting with a qualified healthcare professional allows for accurate diagnosis and appropriate guidance. Prompt evaluation helps reduce the risk of complications and supports a smoother recovery if surgery is needed. Do not delay seeking professional input if symptoms persist or become severe, as early intervention can significantly affect outcomes and long-term well-being.