The gallbladder is a sac that sits in the right upper abdomen, just below the liver, and stores bile produced by the liver. Gallstones may form in the gallbladder or an infection may occur in the organ. Gallstones or gallbladder disease is rare for children, but risks that increase the possibility of the condition in children include sickle-cell anemia, a suppressed immune system, previous abdominal surgery and spinal injuries, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Some children will not experience any symptoms of an inflammation of the gallbladder or of gallstones.
Pain
Pain is a common symptom for children with gallbladder problems. The pain from the gallbladder often begins suddenly in the upper right portion of the abdomen. Pain may also occur in the upper back just between the shoulder blades or in the right shoulder. Young children may experience difficulty pinpointing the specific location the pain, according to Seattle Children's. A sharp pain may occur after pressing on the abdomen in the location of the gallbladder. Taking a deep breath can also cause pain for the child. The pain may feel sharp or can cause a cramping, dull ache. Pain may come and go-, but is common after the child has eaten a fatty or greasy meal.
Gastrointestinal Distress
An inflamed gallbladder and gallstones can cause distress in the stomach and intestines. These common stomach symptoms include nausea, vomiting and abdominal gas. Some individuals may experience chronic diarrhea, according to the UMMC.
Fever
A fever can accompany other symptoms of gallbladder trouble in children. A fever may rise over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit and may cause chills, according to the Merck Manuals.
Jaundice, Dark Urine and Light Stools
If a gallstone moves into the duct leading to the liver, it can cause a blockage. A blockage from a large stone can cause a backup of bile in the gallbladder. Symptoms of a blocked duct include light- or clay-colored stool, darkened urine and jaundice. The stool has a lack of color because a bile pigment called bilirubin is what adds the brown coloring to stool. The urine darkens because more of the bilirubin from the liver filters through the kidneys instead of moving to the stool. Jaundice causes a yellowing of the skin and white portions of the child's eyes because of an increased amount of bilirubin in the body.
