Gallbladder problems can cause a great deal of discomfort. From a sense of feeling bloated to being unable to stand upright, people can exhibit a wide variety of symptoms of problems with the gallbladder. If you suspect you may have a problem of some type with your gallbladder, here are a few of the most common symptoms associated with the gallbladder.
It is not unusual for gallbladder problems to exhibit nothing more than minor symptoms in the early stages. The condition may at first appear to be nothing more than indigestion after consuming certain foods. This example of a symptom of a problem may or may not be accompanied by burping or a buildup of gas that must be released with a load belch.
The mild indigestion may move on to a lingering sense of nausea or queasiness that is similar to mild food poisoning. As the condition continues to worsen, gas and bloating move from being uncomfortable to being painful. If stones are developing and working their way through the bile duct, the individual may begin to experience sharp pains in the lower right side of the abdomen. The sharp pains associated with gallbladder problems caused by the presence of stones usually reaches a peak and then levels off as the stones settle in the bile duct for a short time.
In the most advanced situations, gallbladder problems may be manifested in pain that emanates from the area between the shoulder blades. While this is one of the more common symptoms of advancing gallbladder issues, people often mistake this symptom as being pulled muscles or a problem with the back or spine. However, physicians are well acquainted with this symptom and can easily identify if the pain is due to a problem with the gallbladder or has another cause.
When gallbladder problems reach their most advanced stages, the pain may become so intense that walking in an upright position is not possible. The sharp pains along the right side and between the shoulder blades make it impossible to sit or stand with any degree of comfort. If a doctor has not been consulted before reaching this stage, it is imperative that medical treatment is sought immediately.
Fortunately there is more than one way to treat gallbladder problems. A physician can determine the current status of the problem and initiate a treatment that will help alleviate the pain and also address the core issue. In some cases, it is possible to use prescription medication to deal with gallbladder issues. However, some of the more severe problems may require some type of surgery in order to correct the issue.