Signs and Symptoms of Gallbladder Disease

Your gallbladder may be small, but it plays a vital role in your digestive system. This pear-shaped organ, located just beneath your liver, stores and releases bile to help digest fats. However, when the gallbladder isn’t functioning properly, it can cause a variety of painful and disruptive symptoms. From gallstones to inflammation, here’s how to identify the signs of gallbladder disease and when to talk to your doctor.

Common Gallbladder Conditions

Gallbladder problems can go beyond just gallstones. Common conditions include:

• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis): Hardened deposits of bile that can block the bile duct and cause intense pain.
• Acalculous Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder without gallstones.
• Biliary Dyskinesia: Poor functioning of the gallbladder.
• Sclerosing Cholangitis: Chronic inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts.
• Gallbladder Cancer or Gangrene: Rare but serious conditions requiring immediate treatment.

1. Abdominal Pain (Especially After Eating)

One of the earliest signs of gallbladder issues is pain in the upper right abdomen. This may spread to the back or right shoulder blade and often worsens after a fatty meal. The pain may come and go or last several hours.

If abdominal pain is persistent—especially for more than five hours—seek medical attention.

2. Nausea and Vomiting

While nausea and vomiting can result from many causes, their combination with upper abdominal pain could signal gallbladder disease. Frequent digestive upset without another explanation warrants evaluation by your doctor.

3. Bloating and Abdominal Distension

Inflammation of the gallbladder can lead to swelling and gas, especially after eating. If your abdomen frequently feels bloated or tight, it could be a symptom of gallbladder dysfunction.

4. Digestive and Bowel Changes

Gallbladder disease can impact how your body digests food. Common bowel-related signs include:

• Chronic diarrhea: More than four bowel movements per day for three or more months.
• Light-colored stool: Caused by lack of bile in the intestines.
• Dark urine: Sign of a blocked bile duct.

5. Jaundice

Jaundice causes yellowing of the skin and eyes and is a red flag that bile isn’t properly flowing. It may also be accompanied by itching, fatigue, or dark urine. Gallbladder disease is one of the most common causes of jaundice in adults.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the following symptoms, schedule an evaluation:

• Persistent right-sided abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting not related to illness or food poisoning
• Chronic digestive changes
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)

Treatment Options for Gallbladder Disease

Depending on the cause, treatments may include:

• Medication to manage infections or shrink gallstones
• Lifestyle changes, such as reducing fat intake and staying physically active
• Gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy) for chronic or severe cases

Laparoscopic gallbladder removal is the most common procedure and typically allows for same-day discharge and faster recovery.

Get Expert Digestive Care with BASS Medical Group

At BASS Medical Group, our specialists offer expert diagnosis and treatment for gallbladder issues, including imaging, labs, and surgery. Don’t wait until your symptoms worsen—early treatment leads to better outcomes.

Schedule a consultation today with a BASS Medical Group provider to evaluate your symptoms and receive the care you need.