Symptoms and diagnosis of gallbladder dysfunction

The gallbladder is a small organ located below the liver, whose job is to store and concentrate bile. Bile is essential for the digestion of fats, but if the composition of the bile fluid is altered or its secretion is obstructed, painful symptoms and severe inflammation can develop.

From Endomedix Gastroenterology Centre summary to help you understand the signs of biliary diseases and modern screening options.

Typical symptoms of gallbladder problems

In many cases, gallstones remain asymptomatic until a stone blocks the bile duct. Symptoms can range from mild indigestion to life-threatening conditions.

1. Bile spasm (Epicolic)

This is the most common symptom, often triggered by eating fatty or spicy food.

Pain: Intense, sharp, tight pain under the right ribcage or in the mouth of the stomach.
Radiation: It often radiates to the back, the right shoulder blade or the right shoulder.
Accompanying symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, sweating and significant restlessness.

2. Acute gallbladder inflammation (Acute cholecystitis)

If the blockage persists, the organ wall becomes inflamed. This is an emergency!

Persistent pain: Persistent pain for more than 4-6 hours.
Fever: It may be accompanied by high fever and chills.
With Murphy: The area below the right rib cage is so sensitive to pressure that the patient's breathing becomes obstructed due to pain.

3. Jaundice (Icterus)

When gallstones from the gallbladder enter the common bile duct, they block the bile from draining. Signs:

Yellowish discoloration of the whites of the eyes and skin.
Dark urine and light, clay-coloured stools.

How are biliary diseases diagnosed?

An accurate diagnosis is essential before surgical or drug treatment can be started.

Imaging studies

Abdominal ultrasound (UH): The primary investigation. It's quick, painless and accurately detects gallstones or a thickened bladder wall.
MRCP: A special MRI scan that gives a detailed picture of the bile ducts without contrast material.
Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS): The bile duct can be examined at close range through the stomach, so that even the smallest stones can be detected.

Laboratory diagnostics

During a blood test, professionals will look for:

Inflammatory markers: Elevated white blood cell count and CRP levels.
Liver and biliary enzymes: Elevated levels of ALP, GGT and bilirubin indicate obstruction.
Pancreatic enzymes: The levels of amylase and lipase help rule out pancreatitis as a complication.

When should you see a doctor immediately?

Some symptoms cannot be postponed. Contact Endomedix specialists or emergency care if:

The abdominal pain does not go away for several hours.
Fever and chills develop.
Your skin or eyes become yellowish.