4 Signs You Need Gallbladder Surgery

Gallbladder disease is incredibly common, affecting up to 15% of American adults. Although most gallbladder diseases can be managed conservatively with healthy lifestyle changes and prescription medication, sometimes surgery is necessary.

As a board-certified general surgeon specializing in gallbladder removal, Dina Madni, MD, in Dallas, Texas, knows when gallbladder surgery is the best option. Here, she explains four symptoms that indicate the need for a cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal).

What is gallbladder removal surgery?

Gallbladder removal surgery is an operative procedure that removes your gallbladder — a pear-shaped organ in your digestive system that stores and concentrates bile. Bile is a digestive fluid the liver produces that helps break down fat.

Many people go their whole lives without experiencing gallbladder problems, but if you develop gallbladder disease, we may recommend surgery. That’s because you can live a healthy life without a gallbladder, and your symptoms can get significantly worse without treatment.

4 Signs you may need gallbladder surgery

Not everyone with gallbladder disease needs surgery, but certain symptoms indicate an operative procedure may be right for you. These include:

1. Pain

The most common sign you need gallbladder surgery is severe pain in your upper right abdomen. This pain, called biliary colic, occurs when an obstruction in the biliary tract prevents bile from leaving your gallbladder. 

Gallbladder-related pain is often described as intense, sharp, cramping, and squeezing. If you have any of these symptoms, contact Dina Madni, MD, immediately.

2. Jaundice

If your biliary tract becomes blocked by a gallstone or another obstruction, bile builds up in your liver. Without prompt treatment, this buildup can lead to jaundice –– a yellowing of your skin and whites of your eyes. Jaundice isn’t always serious, but it’s a sign that something is wrong. We can identify the cause and make personalized treatment recommendations.

3. Nausea and vomiting

A gallbladder blockage causes bile to build up in your liver and bloodstream. Even though bile is a natural byproduct of digestion, it contains toxins the liver helps filter out. If bile can’t leave your gallbladder due to an obstruction, these toxins can lead to nausea and vomiting.

4. Fever and chills

A less common symptom of gallbladder disease is fever and chills. Although not as common as pain and jaundice, studies show that about one-third of people with gallbladder disease experience these symptoms. 

Am I a candidate for gallbladder surgery?

The only way to know if you’re a candidate for gallbladder surgery is to schedule an appointment with Dr. Madni.

After reviewing your medical records, discussing your symptoms, performing a physical exam, and performing lab testing, Dr. Madni develops a personalized treatment plan. She takes a minimally invasive approach using robotic surgery whenever possible.

We can help you manage gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease can make life miserable, but you don’t have to suffer. Partnering with a qualified surgeon like Dr. Madni can provide peace of mind and help you return to your favorite activities.

Schedule your gallbladder disease consultation today. Call our Dallas, TX, office or request an appointment online.