Gallbladder Attack Symptoms

A gallbladder attack, also known as biliary colic, occurs when gallstones block the bile ducts. This blockage causes a buildup of pressure in the gallbladder, leading to inflammation and pain. The symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, but they typically include a range of characteristic signs.

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The most common and prominent symptom of a gallbladder attack is pain. This pain is typically located in the upper right abdomen, often radiating to the right shoulder or back.[1] This pain can be described as intense, sharp, cramping, or steady. It usually comes on suddenly and can last for several hours.

Other common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, indigestion, and bloating.[2] These symptoms are often related to the disruption of the digestive process caused by the blocked bile ducts. The gallbladder plays a crucial role in storing and releasing bile, which is essential for digesting fats. When the bile flow is obstructed, it can lead to these digestive issues.

In some cases, a gallbladder attack can be accompanied by fever and chills, especially if an infection is present.[3] This indicates that the inflammation has progressed to an infection, which requires immediate medical attention.

Jaundice, characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes, can occur if a bile duct is blocked.[4] This happens because bilirubin, a waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells, cannot be properly processed and eliminated from the body.

Additional symptoms may include dark urine and pale or clay-colored stools.[5] These changes in urine and stool color are also related to the disruption of bile flow and the processing of bilirubin.