A computed tomography (CT) scan of the abdominal organs.Diagnostic tests will be then be used to determine if the abdominal pain is caused solely by gallstones or another condition – one or more of the following techniques may be used: Your doctor will first conduct a complete medical history and physical examination. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn's disease).Typically, a process of elimination is used to rule out any other disorders which might be mimicking a gallbladder attack, such as: The first step in the diagnosis of a gallbladder disorder is to pinpoint the actual cause of the patient’s discomfort. Tenderness in the abdomen, particularly the right upper quadrant.Pain that extends below the right shoulder blade or to the back that worsens after eating a meal, particularly fatty or greasy foods or a pain that increases when you breathe in deeply.Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).Heartburn, indigestion, and excessive gas.However, most symptoms start with pain in the upper abdominal area, either in the upper right or middle. The symptoms of a gallbladder disorder can vary depending on the type of condition. Signs and symptoms of gallbladder disorders This can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, liver failure or even liver cancer. A disease of the bile ducts that causes inflammation of the liver, slowing the flow of bile to the gut. The gallbladder may rupture, which is cause for a surgical emergency. Inflammation of the gallbladder can be caused by gallstones – the most common cause – excessive alcohol use, infections, or even tumors that cause bile buildup. Studies indicate that if a patient has gallstones present for 10 or more years, they are less likely to cause symptoms. However, about 90% of patients suffering with gallstones may have no symptoms, and may have had the stones present for a number of years. Stones develop inside the gallbladder and can cause pain. The gallbladder becomes scarred from the gallstones and the repeated episodes of inflammation. Dysfunctional gallbladder or chronic gallbladder disease.Episodes usually last only an hour or two, and may recur infrequently, often years apart. The blockage causes the gallbladder to contract vigorously, causing spasmodic (or sometimes constant) severe pain. A term for severe episodes of pain caused by gallstone blockage of the cystic duct. The presence of other (co-morbid) conditions may also cause gallbladder concerns, including: However, if something slows the flow of bile or blocks it completely, then problems can occur. Usually, the gallbladder is not the subject of a health concern. The gallbladder releases the bile into the small intestine to help break down food, particularly fatty foods. Bile is produced by the liver to help digest foods. The gallbladder is a pear-shaped sac found just below the liver that is the “holding area” for bile.
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