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How long can I afely postpone (and possibly even avoid) a cholecystectomy?

Eight days ago I had a really fatty restaurant meal and woke up at 2 a.m. with my first ever gallbladder attack. It abated during the course of the day only to flare up (not quite as badly) after lunch. I took an OTC medication for stomach upset and by bedtime I was fine. I had no symptoms the next two days, though I sensed that my digestive system was not quite right. The next day after dinner I had the next attack --burning cramps right in the middle of my upper abdomen directly below the brestbone.  After five hours I went to the pharmacy for advice, got a generic tylenol, slept for maybe 2 hours then went to my doctor first thing in the morning. She did an ultra sound, diagnosed gallstones, then gave me a prescription for further tests at the hospital, telling me they might admit me right away for surgery. The hospital receptionist gave me an appointment for the following week. My doctor prescribed an anti-cramping medication which did nothing to alleviate the discomfort; I called her in the afternoon and by 5 p.m. was in possession of some pain medication she prescribed. I took one pill. Roughly an hour later the pain subsided (again, after 21 hours).   Since then (i.e., three days ago), while I can sense that my digestive system is off, I have had no pain. I am eating small meals and am going easy on the fat.    I am pretty much resigned to the likelyhood that I wil need gallbladder removal surgery.  But I was hoping to hear the opinions/experiences of others who might have had a similar symptoms, etc.  Many thanks! Warren
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Avatar universal
Sometimes shifting to an alkaline diet, supplementing with pancreatic enzymes and identifying and treating any gut infections can alleviate the issues.
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Avatar universal
Hi Warren - I just experienced my first gallstone flare-up on Monday 7-22. I decided not to have surgery (yet) until I weigh my options. In the meantime, I follow a strict diet... so far it's kept me pain-free.  After reading some of the bad experiences from those who have removed their gbs, I feel it is prudent to wait. I know 2 people who have had great results after their surgeries, then again, that doesn't mean I'll be as fortunate. I think we have to believe that the technology for these types of surgeries is much much better and sophisticated. Anyway, good luck to you!!
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