The gallbladder is located just below the liver and releases bile into the stomach to aid in digestion. Some people experience gallbladder attacks, sudden inflammation in the gallbladder that may result in severe pain in the abdomen, often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. The attacks may last an hour or longer. Approximately 90 percent of attacks result from gallstones, reports MedlinePlus website. Treatment may include medications or ultrasound treatment to break up the stones, but the stones may reoccur. Since these attacks often cause debilitating pain and extreme discomfort, a person should know how to avoid them.
Step 1
Eat a diet low in fat. Consumption of foods that contain high levels of saturated fats, such as meat, dairy and other animal products, may lead to a gallbladder attack. Instead, choose low fat foods or foods with monounsaturated fats, such as olive oil, as well as foods rich in omega-3, such as flaxseed or fish, because this may reduce the risk of an attack caused by the formation of gallstones, explains the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 2
Choose foods high in fiber. A fiber-rich diet may reduce the risk for gallstones, which may help a person avoid a gallbladder attack. In a normal diet, women should consume at least 21 g of fiber per day, and men should eat at least 30 g daily, reports MayoClinic.com. Many legumes contain high amounts of fiber. For instance, 1 cup of cooked split peas contain around 16 g of fiber, and 1 cup of black beans contain 15 g. As well, 1 cup of whole wheat spaghetti provides 6 g of fiber, while 1 slice of whole grain bread gives almost 2 g of fiber. In fruits and vegetables, 1 artichoke has more than 10 g of fiber, and 1 cup of raspberries provides 8 g.
Step 3
Discuss gallbladder removal with a doctor. To avoid persistent, chronic gallbladder attacks, a person may need her gallbladder removed, explains MedlinePlus. For most people, the surgeon will remove the gallbladder with a laparoscopic procedure that requires small incisions. More complicated conditions may require an abdominal incision that will require extra time for healing and recuperation.
Tips and Warnings
- A person who has chronic gallbladder attacks should discuss her options with her health practitioner.
- Persistent or intense abdominal pain requires immediate evaluation from a health practitioner.
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