Sluggish Gallbladder Symptoms
The main function of the gallbladder is to store bile, which is a product of the liver. This storage depot absorbs the water contained in the bile and makes it more concentrated than originally secreted. The gallbladder contracts whenever food enters the duodenum, and eventually relaxes to allow bile to enter the intestine.
- Increased bilirubin levels. If the flow of bile is impeded, as in the case of gallstones, bilirubin does not enter the intestine.
- Decreased excretion of stool. An increase in bilirubin levels result to increased excretion of urobilinogen in the urine, and decreased excretion of metabolic wastes.
- Excessive flatulence may indicate gallbladder disease.
- Pain and colic. Once the function of the gallbladder slows down, it may become distended, inflamed, and eventually infected. Fever and abdominal mass may develop. An excruciating upper right abdominal pain may be experienced several hours after one heavy meal.
- Jaundice
- Changes in urine and stool.
Sluggish Gallbladder Treatment
Most substances that can help prevent either the formation or recurrence of sluggish gallbladder symptoms can be found at the patient’s own home.
- Lentils. Inclusion of lentils, nuts, beans, peas, and oranges in the diet can prevent future gallbladder malfunction.
- Cereals. Grains rich in fiber can be an alternative to snacks with high sugar and carbohydrate content. Skipping breakfast can increase the risk for the formation of gallstones.
- Salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids help prevent the formation of gallstones.
- Wine. Half a glass of wine a day helps prevent gallstones.
- Red Bell Pepper. This vegetable is rich in vitamin C that can help prevent disorders of the gallbladder.
- Coffee. Around 2 to 3 cups of coffee a day reduces the risk of gallstones.
Sluggish Gallbladder Causes
Most sluggish gallbladder conditions commonly occur with aging. Age-related changes include decreased gallbladder contraction after each meal. However, not all changes occurring in the gallbladder are due to aging. Several disorders can affect the biliary system. Underlying conditions can interfere with the normal drainage of bile into the duodenum.
- Gallstones. Otherwise known as cholelithiasis, it is by far the most common disorder of the gallbladder. Calculi usually begin as solid constituents of the bile.
- Cholecystitis. Inflammation of the gallbladder can cause symptoms such as pain, tenderness, and rigidity of the upper right abdomen. The pain may radiate to the right shoulder, and can be associated with seemingly unrelated symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.