Gallbladder problems: When should you see a surgeon?

Gallbladder problems are a common cause of upper abdominal pain, often linked to gallstones or inflammation. Many people experience mild or occasional symptoms and wonder when to seek specialist advice.

In this article, general and upper gastrointestinal surgeon Mr Stavros Karamanakos explains what the gallbladder does, the typical signs of gallbladder disease, when it’s time to see a surgeon, and what treatment options are available.

What does the gallbladder do?

The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver. Its main role is to store and release bile, a digestive fluid that helps break down fats. When you eat, particularly fatty foods, the gallbladder contracts to release bile into the small intestine.

Problems can occur when bile components form gallstones, or when the gallbladder becomes inflamed or blocked. These conditions can cause pain, nausea, and digestive discomfort.

Common symptoms of gallbladder disease

Gallbladder disease can cause a variety of symptoms. The most common include:

Pain in the upper right abdomen, often after eating fatty meals.
Pain that radiates to the shoulder or back.
Nausea, vomiting, or bloating.
Indigestion or discomfort after meals.

These attacks, known as biliary colic, may last from minutes to several hours. While they often resolve on their own, untreated gallbladder problems can lead to more serious complications.

When to seek medical advice

Not every episode of discomfort requires immediate treatment, but some symptoms should prompt you to seek medical help. You should see a doctor or surgeon if you experience:

Severe or persistent abdominal pain that doesn’t settle.
Fever or chills, which may indicate infection (cholecystitis).
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), suggesting bile duct obstruction.
Frequent or worsening attacks that interfere with daily life.

When surgery is recommended

Surgery to remove the gallbladder, known as a cholecystectomy, is often the best long-term treatment for symptomatic gallstones or recurrent inflammation.

This is usually performed as laparoscopic (keyhole) gallbladder surgery, involving small incisions, quicker recovery, and minimal scarring.

You may be advised to have gallbladder removal if:

You experience frequent or severe gallbladder attacks.
There are complications such as infection, jaundice, or pancreatitis.
Tests show gallstones causing obstruction or inflammation.

Most patients go home the same day or the following day and can return to normal activities within one to two weeks.

Living without a gallbladder

Life without a gallbladder is very manageable. The liver continues to produce bile, which now flows directly into the small intestine. Some people notice mild digestive changes initially, but most can return to a normal diet over time.

Maintaining a balanced, low-fat diet can help reduce any post-surgical discomfort or bloating during recovery.

Gallbladder problems are common, and while mild symptoms can sometimes be managed conservatively, persistent or severe pain should never be ignored.