Gallbladder

[dmurphy]

I am 28 y/o female, 135 pounds, eat very healthy, and exercise mildly most days.  For about a month I have been having slight pain under my right rib.  It is sort of a pinching pain.  I also have light-colored stools sometimes and feel constipated.  About a week ago I developed extreme bloating in my upper abdomen.  I also have upper right back pain.  I went to urgent care and had blood tests; CBC, liver enzymes, and urine tests were all normal.  I had an ultrasound today to rule out gallstones and the ultrasound was normal.  Doctor said I could either have IBS or a gallbladder that is not functioning properly.  He recommended I go see my normal doctor if the pain gets worse or persists for a HIDA scan.  He didn't seem worried.  I don't have a "general physician" and I would rather not have the HIDA scan.  If my gallbladder is "not functioning properly" does it need to be removed?  Is it urgent?  Could it rupture or cause infection in the meantime?  Would I be able to keep my gallbladder and cut out certain foods from my diet?  Am I harming myself of putting myself in danger by putting this off?  thanks for any information.

[dmurphy]

Thanks.  But would you mind answering my questions?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

I agree with the testing thus far.

Indeed, the HIDA scan with CCK stimulation would be the appropriate next step.  A low gallbladder ejection fraction can lead to the symptoms, and removing the gallbladder is a treatment possibility.  

A low-fat diet may help if the gallbladder is the culprit.

If not, then an upper endoscopy can be performed to evaluate for various causes of dyspesia and upper GI disorders.

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd