The pain associated with gallstones (cholelithiasis) and gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis) can be excruciating. Consequently, learning how to properly identify and remedy such attacks is mission critical.
The following breaks down the fundamental facts about the gallbladder and this common condition affecting approximately 10 to 15 percent of the U.S. adult population—with about 1 million cases presenting annually—including preventative measures and treatment options.
If any of the above describe your current condition, you should arrange a consultation with your gastroenterologist for a proper diagnosis. Then, you can work together to create a plan of action that relieves you of your symptoms. In the meantime, there are some dietary changes you could make, today, to be proactive about your gallbladder health.
Physical activity helps in maintaining healthy weight and cholesterol levels. According to the American Heart Association, the recommended amount of physical activity for people who would benefit from lowering their blood pressure or cholesterol is 40 minutes of aerobic exercise of moderate to vigorous intensity, three to four times a week.
Your liver may release more cholesterol than usual into your bile if:
The recommended pace for healthy, sustainable weight loss (that is, if you need to lose weight at all) is around a pound or two of fat per week.
In many cases of gallbladder disease, removal of the minor organ (cholecystectomy) is inevitable. In the United States, where approximately 20 million people have gallstones, it is a very common procedure. Of those afflicted, about 300,000 patients opt for surgical gallbladder removal, or cholecystectomy, per year.
Cholecystectomy is often performed as a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure, with four small incisions. When this is not possible or appropriate, your surgeon may decide to perform an open cholecystectomy using one larger incision.
In any case, there is only a small risk of post-surgical complications. Most of the time, you'll be permitted to go home the very same day.
A cholecystectomy is performed using general anesthesia, so you will be unconscious during the procedure.
Gastroenterology Associates specializes in helping restore you and your family to optimal digestive health. We are conveniently located adjacent to Long Island Center for Digestive Health (LICDH), a New York State-licensed non-hospital outpatient facility dedicated to providing high-quality endoscopic and colonoscopic services in a comfortable, welcoming environment. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today!