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Contemplating NOT having suggested gallbladder surgery!
It is interesting reading the experience of others. I must remind myself we all are of "unknown" reliability. However, here goes: It has been suggested I have gallbladder removal due to surprising symptoms (attack?) that started 5 months ago: tremendous tightness in upper right quadrant, no warnings, "almost" some shortness of breath and vague pressure traveling upward in back/chest/arms (hard to describe), brief cold sweat. Distressing but not SUPER painful. I have only had a few of these "big" episodes; maybe weekly I have a milder version of the above. Ultrasound showed gallstones. I AM ADAMANT about trying not to lose this organ. I just had 3 elective surgeries in 3 years - all successful (2 total knee replacements and 1 dental bridge). I have always been quite healthy and will go to extremes to avoid surgery. Sorry, I am leary of doctors. I am seeking a great gastroenterologist or alternative medicine Dr. as I am determined to not follow doctors' advice. I have read about gallstones that can cause fatal damage if they pass into pancreas, etc. But I am trying to figure out how to manage. Have discovered smaller meals seem to help, choosing proper foods for this condition, eating slower (I think). But, I still cannot predict when an attack will occur. I am fearful of infections because of my 2 knee replacements. I do not get infections actually; am quite healthy, very active physically, intellectually engaged in volunteer projects and teaching. So far I REFUSE TO CONSIDER SURGERY. Please do not stereotype me when I reveal chronological age (78 yr. old female). I consider myself more like 60-65. My attitude is one of shock and annoyance that this problem arose and that surgery has (possibly) been suggested. People say "it is easy"; not a big deal. Shall I wait for more disturbing symptoms? See if I can handle this myself? Get multiple opinions? Thank you for your comments (I realize there is no definite answer.)
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My inflammation was in my gallbladder.
My inflammation was in the gallbladder.
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1 ReactionIn one of my routine annual physicals 20 years ago, my physician noted that some of my liver profiles were off. I had no other symptoms and I felt fine. My blood work continued to indicate that something was wrong and 9 months later, and My GI ordered a liver biopsy which was normal. A few months later I started having a tingling sensation in that same area so he ordered a scan with dye contrast and discovered that my gallbladder was not functioning, so surgery to remove it was scheduled. It was done a few weeks later, as outpatient arthroscopic surgery and I went home a couple of hours afterwards. I experienced very little pain and the recovery was easy. I hope that will be true for you.
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1 ReactionI would def get 2 nd opinion on that before taking gallbladder out .
Esp if it was just one episode.
Sometimes it causes more issues for people once it’s taken out .
I have 7 horrible digestive disorders for 10 long hard years daily .
I still have my gallbladder. I’ve had c scans and doesn’t seem like I have a problem w/ it .
Keep us posted ok ✅.
I had mine out five weeks ago. So far so good but I have to be careful with my diet. I have been good before the laproscopic surgery but now I have to be better. No fried foods, easy on dairy. My only issue is diarrhea. I have it almost daily, sometimes 4-6 times.
It sucks.
No pain though.
CindyC
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1 ReactionHi! I hope all is well! I am having gallbladder removal surgery this week and was hoping to get some tips from others who have had the same surgery. I have been struggling with my digestive health for about 4 years now a have been diagnosed with a lazy gallbladder, gastroparesis and IBS. I am hoping this surgery will help me with my digestive health as I am nauseous and puke all the time after eating. If you have any tips, tricks or comments please let me know!
Thank you! Have a great day!
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1 Reaction@kmr756 after my gallbladder was remove I found I could not eat deep fried foods for several years. Even just a handful of fries felt like they sat in my stomach like a rock. Now I can eat deep fried foods, but in moderation.
You might have some issues eating things that are higher in fat. That's because bile is needed to digest fat and for a while it may be a bit sluggish post surgery. My main symptom was upset stomach with abdominal pain and it turned out my duct itself was stretched with stones. I thought I would instantly feel better but that wasn't the case. But my duct was likely injured getting the stones out (per current hepatologist) and most people don't normally have a duct filled with stones-it's most often the gallbladder itself that has stones and sludge. Be patient with yourself and just manage your expectations. I never felt I had a big issue with fat but that is the most common post issue. Good luck and I hope you'll find yourself feeling a lot better.
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2 ReactionsI had gallbladder surgery a week ago.
still having a lot of pain, no appetite and when I do eat, my stomach swells are very bloated. I have had a little diarrhea. When will I begin to get a better appetite with this it is concerning.
i’m also very lethargic and no energy and a little short of breath
is this common. i’m so ready to feel better