If you have pain so bad you have trouble getting comfortable or a high fever with these symptoms, go to the emergency room. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of your eyes) is also a symptom that requires medical care right away.
For instance, the doctor may want to make sure the pain isn’t coming from something like appendicitis. Your doctor may also want to take imaging tests, such as CT scans, MRIs, a HIDA scan, or an ERCP scan. [3] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
With an ultrasound, they will typically put a gel on your abdomen and run a wand-like device over it to look at your gallbladder. It won’t hurt.
For a blood test, a technician will draw your blood with a needle then send it off to be tested.
You may need to take these medications for up to 2 years before they are effective, if they ever are. The typical medications prescribed for gallstones are ursodiol (Actigall) and chenodiol (Chenix). Gallstones can recur after you stop taking these medications.
Usually, this treatment is only used for people who have tiny, soft stones. Gallstones can reoccur after this treatment.
Talk to your doctor about what an appropriate amount of fat in your diet is. They may suggest you focus on healthy fats like nuts, avocados, vegetable oil, and olive oil.
Talk to your doctor about what an appropriate amount of fat in your diet is. They may suggest you focus on healthy fats like nuts, avocados, vegetable oil, and olive oil.
Dairy products include foods like cow’s milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and butter.
Aim to eat at least 5 servings of fruits and veggies every day. You don’t have to eat fresh fruits and vegetables. Frozen and canned can have just as many health benefits. Just be sure to opt for no-sugar and low-sodium options. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Whole grains include whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, oatmeal, bulgur, quinoa, barley, and buckwheat, just to name a few.
Scientists are not exactly sure why nuts help you avoid a gallbladder surgery, but it’s likely due to the fiber, bioactive components, magnesium, and phytosterols that nuts contain. Phytosterols may lower cholesterol, while magnesium can help increase your insulin sensitivity, both of which may decrease your chances of developing gallstones. [15] X Research source
Talk to your doctor about how fast you should be losing weight if you need to. Aim to only lose 5-10% of your body weight over 6 months. [17] X Trustworthy Source National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Health information from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, a division of the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Losing weight gradually is not only safer than quick weight loss, but ultimately more effective. You’re more likely to keep the weight off if you lose weight at a rate of 1–2 pounds (0. 45–0. 91 kg) per week than if you lose it more quickly. [18] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source In order to lose weight successfully and keep it off, you will need to commit to long-term lifestyle changes, including healthy eating and exercise habits. [19] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
By most recommendations, women can consume up to 1 drink a day and men can consume up to 2. [21] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Talk to your doctor about quitting. You may want to try nicotine patches or gum to help you quit. Discuss quitting with your friends and family so they can help you stay away from tobacco.
Exercise doesn’t have to mean going to the gym. Try taking a walk at lunch, taking the stairs instead of the elevator, and parking further out at the store. Housework and gardening can also count as exercise. Try different exercises to see what you like. If running isn’t your thing, try swimming or basketball. If you’re not into biking, try Zumba or yoga. If you’re overweight, you may want to increase your time to 45 minutes a day.
Talk to your doctor about the risks of eating probiotic foods if you are pregnant, have a weakened immune system, or have other serious health concerns. [25] X Research source
Always talk to your doctor before trying any herb or dietary supplement. Let them know if you are pregnant or nursing, have any other health conditions, or are currently taking any other supplements or medications. It’s not always clear whether herbal supplements are actually helpful in the treatment of gallbladder diseases. For example, there is not much definitive evidence to support the use of milk thistle to treat liver and gallbladder conditions. [26] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
Coconut oil Shea butter Essential oils, such as clary sage, geranium, and thyme[28] X Research source Use caution when using essential oils, since some of these—including lavender and tea tree oil—may also disrupt your hormone balance. [29] X Research source
