subject: Do You Have Problems With Your Gall Bladder ? [print this page] Do You Have Problems With Your Gall Bladder ?
One million Americans every year is diagnosed with gallstones! Some common signs and symptoms associated with gallbladder dysfunctionare:
*abdominal gas or bloating
*greasy or fatty foods upset your stomach,
*nausea,
*unexplained itchiness,
*yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes,
*sour or bitter metallic taste in the mouth especially in the morning,
*pale colored stools,
*foul smelling stools,
*stools that float,
*abdominal pain particularly in the right upper quadrant.
The following increases your chances of having gallbladder disease:
*being female,
*being over 40 years of age,
*being overweight,
*being pregnant,
*having a diet high in fat or cholesterol,
*having a diet low in fiber,
*taking certain medications such as cholesterol lowering drugs and hormone replacement therapy,
*having diabetes,
*being Mexican American or American Indian,
*a family history of gallbladder disease always increases your risk.
The gallbladder is a small sack that sits just below the liver. The gallbladder stores bile which is produced by the liver. Bile helps in the digestion of fat.
Gallbladder disease can have a wide range of symptoms as well, such as:
*beginning gallbladder dysfunction and inflammation,
*infection,
*gallstones,
*blockage
*cancer, although cancer of the gallbladder is very rare
The diagnosis of gallbladder disease is done by history and clinical exam as well as specific laboratory testing. The symptoms associated with gallbladder disease can also be confused with conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and pancreatitis. Simple blood work can help confirm the diagnosis, particularly liver function test. In addition, imaging with ultrasound, and at times, C.A.T scans may verify the presence of stones.
Treatment for gallbladder disease may range from natural supplementation with various herbs, vitamins and minerals, dietary changes as well as medication and possible surgery for the removal of gallstones shouldthe condition have progressed to the point that you have a symptomatic gallstone that needs to move, as you may be at risk of blockage. For this reason, it is important to identify gallbladder disease early in the progression of the disease in order to attempt to avoid having surgery for symptomatic gallstones. If you suspect you have symptoms relating to gallbladder disease you should contact a physician to have a proper history and physical exam performed as well as possible additional laboratory testing. Remember, it is key to address gallbladder diseaseearly in order to avoid possible surgery.
