Gallbladder Disease in Kansas City, MO
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Find a ProviderWhat is gallbladder disease?
Your gallbladder is a small organ located in the abdomen. It holds and regulates the release of bile to aid in the breakdown of foods during digestion. The term gallbladder disease is used to describe various problems and conditions that negatively affect the gallbladder. These issues include:
- Biliary dyskinesia: Lower than normal gallbladder function.
- Sclerosing cholangitis: Ongoing damage and inflammation to the bile duct system that causes scar tissues to develop.
- Acalculous gallbladder disease: When the gallbladder becomes inflamed in the absence of gallstones.
- Cholecystitis: An inflammation of the gallbladder that is commonly caused by gallstones. Over time, the gallbladder can diminish in size and lose its ability to excrete bile.
- Choledocholithiasis: A situation where a gallstone becomes trapped in the exit way of the gallbladder. If this arises, the gallbladder may become inflamed.
- Gallstones: Solid particles that can block the route to the gallbladder and bile ducts.
If you are experiencing any of the gallbladder conditions listed above, you should have a skilled gastroenterology provider help you through the treatment process. At Digestive Health Specialists, our team can deliver the guidance you seek. To learn more about treatments for gallbladder disease in Kansas City, MO, please reach out to our team to request a consultation.
What are the causes of gallbladder disease?
Issues with the gallbladder typically arise from the development of gallstones, which occur when cholesterol and other materials found in liver bile clot and form hard stone-like pieces. Tumors can also prevent the bile from emptying correctly, as well as an infection or blood vessel issues. Whatever the cause of gallbladder disease, you can find experienced care at Digestive Health Specialists. Our team will evaluate your gallbladder and help you select the most ideal option for treatment.
What are the common symptoms of gallbladder disease?
Symptoms will vary from person to person, depending on the type of gallbladder disease you have. Common signs and symptoms of gallbladder disease can include:
- Feeling nauseous
- Pain that spreads to the back or right shoulder
- Severe abdominal pain, especially in your upper right or center portion of the abdomen
- Fever
- Tenderness in the abdomen
- Throwing up
If you are experiencing any of the GI symptoms mentioned above, please connect with a Digestive Health Specialists GI provider right away to request a consultation.
What are the treatments for gallbladder disease?
The best strategy to reduce the risk of gallstones is to sustain a healthy weight, lose weight progressively if recommended, and adopt a healthy way of life. Many gallbladder diseases can be identified through a simple ultrasound. In some instances, your provider might advise having further imaging, like a CT or MRI scan. In the event treatment for gallbladder disease is needed, possible treatments involve:
- Pain relief medication
- Antibiotics
- Removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy)
- Medications to dissolve gallstones
- Fasting (this can allow your inflamed gallbladder to rest and minimize inflammation)
If you or a member of your family need treatment for gallbladder disease in Kansas City, MO, our gastroentologists will provide you with available treatment options.
Trusted gallbladder disease treatment
Gallbladder conditions, including gallstones, cholecystitis, and biliary dyskinesia, can be diagnosed and treated by a gastroenterologist at Digestive Health Specialists. If you are exhibiting symptoms associated with your digestive health, then it is vital that you consult an experienced gastroenterology provider in your community to be examined for conditions like gallbladder disease. As a physician-led group of GI providers, we are well-equipped with the latest innovative treatment solutions for those experiencing gallbladder disease. To locate an experienced gastroenterologist who treats gallbladder disease in Kansas City, MO, contact our practice today.
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