What You Need to Know About Gallbladder Attacks

As a general surgeon, I see a lot of abdominal pain, and one common culprit is biliary colic–also sometimes called a gallbladder attack. It's a term that might sound intimidating, but understanding it can help you recognize the symptoms and seek appropriate care.

So, what exactly is biliary colic? Simply put, it's abdominal pain caused by a gallstone temporarily blocking the bile duct. Think of it like a pebble getting stuck in a pipe – it creates pressure and discomfort.

Symptoms of Biliary Colic

The hallmark symptom is a sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen, often after a fatty meal. This pain isn't constant; it comes in waves, building in intensity before gradually subsiding. It can last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours and may radiate to your right shoulder or back. Nausea and vomiting are also common companions.

How Biliary Colic is Diagnosed

Diagnosing biliary colic usually involves a good old-fashioned medical history and physical exam, followed by imaging. Ultrasound is the go-to initial test, as it's excellent at visualizing the gallbladder and detecting gallstones. Sometimes, a CT scan or HIDA scan might be necessary for a more detailed look.

Treating Your Gallbladder Pain

Treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms. For mild cases, pain relievers and dietary modifications (avoiding fatty foods) might suffice. However, the definitive treatment for recurrent biliary colic is often surgical removal of the gallbladder, a procedure called a cholecystectomy. Fortunately, most cholecystectomies are performed laparoscopically or robotically, meaning smaller incisions and a faster recovery.

Women and Gallstones

Fun Fact: Did you know that women are twice as likely as men to develop gallstones? This is thought to be due to the effects of estrogen on cholesterol levels in bile. Also, the "4 F's" are often associated with gallstone risk: Female, Forty, Fertile, and Fair (skinned). While not a perfect predictor, it's a helpful mnemonic!

If you're experiencing recurrent episodes of upper abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty foods, don't ignore it. Talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent more serious complications and get you back to enjoying life, pain-free!