Gallbladder
The Gallbladder is a pear shaped organ that sits along the right hand side of the abdomen just below the liver. Its function is to hold and then release bile into the small intestine for proper digestion. When gallstones form they may become lodged in the bile duct and cause pain and inflammation of the gallbladder. If left untreated this may lead to further complications. Gallstones range from the size of a grain of sand to that of a pea. Most (75%) are cholesterol stones and some are pigment stones.
Symptoms May Include:
Early Signs:
- Nausea & vomiting
- Pain in upper right abdomen
- Symptoms often follow fatty foods
Could Progress To:
- Severe pain from upper right abdomen, across chest & over shoulder (mimics heart attack)
- Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting
- Tea / coffee colored urine
