A tiny organ may need your attention: where the gallbladder is located, how it works and can affect us

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located in the upper right part of the abdomen, just below the liver. More specifically, it lodges in a depression on the underside of the right lobe of the liver, remaining firmly attached to this vital organ.

Thus, half-hidden, it measures approximately 7 to 10 centimeters in length and has a storage capacity of around 50 milliliters. Its strategic position, connected to the bile duct system that connects the liver to the small intestine, allows it to efficiently fulfill its function in the digestive process.

This small but important organ acts as a specialized reservoir for bile, a substance continuously produced by the liver that is essential for the digestion of fats.

How the Gallbladder Works

The gallbladder concentrates and stores bile between meals, and when we eat food (especially those high in fat), it contracts to release this digestive fluid into the duodenum through the common bile duct.

Although it is not a vital organ and we can live without it, when the gallbladder presents problems it can lead to significant complications.

The most common conditions include gallstones (stones formed by crystallization of bile components), cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), and a variety of disorders that can cause severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and digestive problems. They significantly impact the quality of life of those who suffer from them.

Symptoms of Gallbladder Problems

The initial symptoms of gallbladder problems, such as gallstones or cholecystitis, often include sudden, severe pain in the upper right part of the abdomen or in the center of the abdomen, just below the breastbone. This pain may radiate to the back or right shoulder and can last from minutes to several hours. Nausea and vomiting may also occur.

As the condition progresses, more serious symptoms such as fever, chills, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice), dark urine,and light-colored stools may appear, indicating complications and requiring immediate medical attention.

The pain is often triggered after heavy or fatty meals, and tenderness in the affected area is common. These early symptoms should be evaluated by a physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment, as prolonged obstruction of the bile ducts can cause serious complications.

Screening for Disorders

The initial test of choice for diagnosing most gallbladder disorders is an abdominal ultrasound, which is noninvasive and can effectively evaluate the gallbladder for stones, sludge, and signs of inflammation, according to literature from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

X-ray is less sensitive, as calcified gallstones are only seen on plain abdominal x-rays in about 10% of patients with gallstone disease.

A CT scan is also often performed to evaluate abdominal pain. This is very accurate for diagnosing gallbladder disease, but it exposes the patient to radiation.

Diagnosis and Treatments

Gallbladder disorders are primarily diagnosed through symptom analysis, a physical examination, and testing. Diagnosis includes blood tests to detect infections or biliary problems; imaging studies such as an abdominal ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the gallbladder and bile ducts; and a hepatobiliary scan to detect obstructions to bile flow.

Treatment depends on the specific disease and its severity but commonly includes:

Recommended Diet

For those who have had gallbladder problems, dietary changes focused on avoiding high-fat foods and choosing low-fat, high-fiber options are recommended. It's important to avoid full-fat dairy products, red meat, and saturated fats found in sausages, fried foods, and processed foods.

Instead, you should consume skim or 1% milk, lean meats like skinless chicken and fish, as well as plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains like oatmeal and brown rice. Small amounts of healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and avocado are also recommended. Avoiding frying foods and preferring methods such as sauteing with healthy oils.

It is also advisable to eat small portions more frequently to aid digestion and prevent the formation of gallstones. It is important not to lose weight too quickly, as this can increase the risk of stones. Increasing fiber intake gradually helps regularize bowel movements and avoid associated digestive problems. In addition, it is recommended to avoid caffeine, very sweet foods, and excessive dairy products to prevent diarrhea and discomfort. These changes contribute to maintaining gallbladder health and relieving symptoms related to gallbladder problems.

Natural Remedies

As alternatives to medications and, ultimately,surgery, there are possible natural remedies for gallbladder problems. These primarily include dietary changes, the application of heat, and the use of certain teas and supplements with anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Among the most recommended are:

These remedies can help relieve symptoms, but it is essential to consult a doctor for a proper diagnosis and to rule out serious complications.

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