Gallbladder Attacks: Understanding the Condition

A gallbladder attack, often referred to as biliary colic or cholecystitis, is a painful condition that arises when the gallbladder is unable to function correctly. This typically occurs due to the presence of gallstones, which are hardened deposits that can form in the gallbladder. These stones can obstruct the bile ducts, leading to a cascade of problems.[1]

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The primary cause of a gallbladder attack is the blockage of the bile ducts by gallstones. This obstruction can lead to inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) or a buildup of bile, causing significant pain.[2]

Symptoms and Causes

The most common symptom of a gallbladder attack is sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen. This pain, known as biliary colic, can last from minutes to several hours. The pain may radiate to the right shoulder or back. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and sometimes fever.[3]

The underlying cause is almost always the presence of gallstones. These stones can vary in size and number. Risk factors for developing gallstones include obesity, a diet high in fat and cholesterol, rapid weight loss, and a family history of gallstones.[4]

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, to visualize the gallbladder and identify any gallstones. Blood tests may also be performed to check for signs of inflammation or infection.[5]

Treatment often involves pain management and, in many cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). This surgery can be performed laparoscopically, which involves small incisions and a shorter recovery time. In some cases, medications may be used to dissolve gallstones, but this is less common and may not be effective for all types of gallstones.[6]

A gallbladder attack occurs when gallstones obstruct the bile ducts, leading to inflammation (cholecystitis) or bile buildup, and causing severe pain (biliary colic) in the upper right abdomen.