Your gallbladder is the small organ on the right side of your abdomen below your liver. Its purpose is to contain the digestive fluid that is released into your intestine. A gallstone is a solidified deposit of digestive fluid that has formed in your gallbladder. A gallstone can be as small as a pebble or as large as a golf ball, according to the Mayo Clinic. Gallstones can cause problems for many Americans, some requiring surgery. When gallstones block the passage of fluid from your gallbladder, a gallbladder attack can occur. The symptoms may come on suddenly and cause severe pain.
Pain in the Abdomen
Gallstones can go unnoticed if symptoms and pain are not present. These gallstones require no treatment. In some cases, however, a gallstone becomes trapped in a duct, causing a blockage and resulting in pain in various areas of the abdomen. Pain in the right portion of the abdomen or the center of the abdomen, just below the breastbone, is a common indicator of a gallbladder attack. This pain can become intense quickly, making it difficult to find a comfortable position.
Pain in the Shoulder or Shoulder Blades
Pain in the shoulder or shoulder blades is another common symptom of a gallbladder attack caused by gallstones. These pain symptoms can last from several minutes to hours, and when they are accompanied by abdominal pain, they may worsen with deep breathing.
Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting accompanied by gas and belching may be signs of a gallbladder attack. These symptoms may be hard to decipher, as they are often mistaken for indigestion because they typically follow a greasy meal and frequently occur more often at night. If the pain becomes so severe it is difficult to walk or sit and is accompanied by a fever, seek medical attention immediately. You may need surgery (cholecystectomy) to remove your gallbladder. According to the Mayo Clinic, a gallbladder is not necessary to live, but removal can cause diarrhea.
