1. Stomach Upset and Indigestion
A gallbladder attack often causes symptoms of indigestion, which feels like burning in your upper abdomen. This condition, also known as heartburn, may accompany nausea, vomiting, abdominal bloating, belching and increased flatulence or gas. These symptoms may appear to be worse after eating greasy meals that have a high fat content.
2. A Real Pain in the Gallbladder
Pain is one of the main gallstone symptoms. An irritated and inflamed gallbladder may cause abdominal pain in the upper middle part of your stomach and upper right abdomen. The pain may spread from your abdomen to your back and into your right shoulder blade. While it's more common to experience the pain about 60 to 90 minutes after eating, you may experience the pain at any time, including the middle of the night. The pain may be steady or come and go in waves, lasting from 30 minutes to several hours. Once the severe pain passes, you may notice dull pain for several days.
3. Yellow From Jaundice
Sometimes, after leaving the gallbladder, a gallstone lodges in the common bile duct (cholangitis). During bile duct obstruction, some people experience jaundice. If you have jaundice, it means that your blood is carrying too much of a pigment known as bilirubin. The most well known symptom of jaundice is the yellowish tint to the skin and the whites of the eyes. Additionally, a jaundiced person may have clay-colored stool, dark urine, and severe itching. It's imperative that you call a doctor immediately if you notice signs of jaundice.
4. Persistent Pancreatitis
A gallstone trapped in the lower part of the common bile duct, near it's juncture with the duodenum, may obstruct the flow from the pancreas. This may lead to pancreatitis, a condition that causes pain, nausea, vomiting, fever and a rapid pulse. Persistent pancreatitis may lead to dehydration, low blood pressure, internal bleeding, organ failure and death.
5. Take Fever Seriously
If the gallbladder becomes infected, then fever may result. A fever persisting for more than 12 hours is cause for concern. Fever may be accompanied by chills and sweating. Infection may occur with or without pain. If you have a fever accompanied by pain or jaundice, then you should see your doctor immediately. The doctor may administer an antibiotic to treat the infection.
