Gallbladder Attacks/ Gallbladder Pain

Pain in the gallbladder, also known as a gallstone attack, occurs when gallstones block the bile duct or tube, leading to intense pain. Let's explore the causes, symptoms, and available treatments for this condition.

What Is the Gallbladder?

The gallbladder is a small sac located in the upper right abdomen, just below the liver. Its primary function is to store bile produced by the liver. Bile helps break down fats and aids in the absorption of certain vitamins from food. When you consume fatty foods, bile is released from the gallbladder and liver into the intestines, where most digestion occurs.

Causes of Gallbladder Attacks

Gallstones are the main culprits behind gallbladder attacks. These tiny, hard “pebbles” form from fats, proteins, and minerals in your body. There are two main types of gallstones:

1. Cholesterol Gallstones: These are the most common type and appear white or yellow due to their cholesterol or fat content.
2. Pigment Gallstones: These gallstones result from excess bilirubin in the bile, giving them a dark brown or black colour. Bilirubin is the pigment responsible for the red colour of blood cells.

Symptoms of a Gallbladder Attack

The treatment approach for gallstones depends on the severity of symptoms and the presence of complications. Treatment options may include:

• Sudden and Sharp Pain: The hallmark symptom of a gallbladder attack is intense pain in the upper right abdomen. This pain can last from minutes to hours.
• Aggravation After Meals: Gallbladder attacks often follow heavy meals, especially those rich in fats.
• Evening Predominance: Attacks are more likely to occur in the evening or during the night.
• Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals experience nausea and vomiting during an attack.

When to Seek Medical Attention

• If you suspect a gallbladder attack, seek immediate medical care.
• High fever or severe pain may indicate an emergency situation.
• Remember that other conditions (such as heartburn, appendicitis, or kidney stones) can also cause pain in the upper right abdomen.

Treatment Options

1. Surgery: Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) is often necessary if attacks reoccur, or complications arise.
2. Preventive Measures: Lifestyle changes, including a low-fat diet, can help prevent future attacks.

Quality of Life

Prompt medical attention is crucial during a gallbladder attack. Understanding the symptoms and seeking timely treatment can lead to effective management and relief.

Your Consultation

Dr. Golani will provide further discussion regarding the specifics of your diagnosis during your consultation. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to select the hospital for your procedure and potentially set the date for your procedure.

The best surgical hospitals in Sydney are available for your surgery:

• Sydney Adventist Hospital, Wahroonga
• The Mater Hospital, North Sydney
• Norwest Private Hospital, Bella Vista
• Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital, Hornsby

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Golani, please contact our team for a consultation with Dr Golani. We have appointments available at three convenient locations across Sydney:

• Hornsby,
• North Sydney and
• Bella Vista

Please note that a GP referral will be required prior to your consultation.

Contact Us

To make an initial consultation booking, please contact our office on 02 8599 9819.

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Hornsby Clinic Address:

Madison Building
Suite 7, 25-29 Hunter St,
Hornsby NSW 2077
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

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Our Horsnby clinic is located conviniently next to Hornsby Westfield & Hornsby Station
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Mater Clinic Address:

Suite 13, Level 1 Mater Clinic
Mater Hospital
25 Rocklands Rd, North Sydney NSW 2060
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

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Our Mater clinic is located within Mater Hospital. Parking and Entry (convenient Pickup and Drop Zone) is via 5 Gillies St, Wollstonecraft.
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Norwest Clinic Address:

Suite 301C, Level 3
Q Central Building
10 Norbrik Dr, Bella Vista NSW 2153
Phone: (02) 8599 9819
Email: info@drgolani.com.au
Fax:(02) 9012 0976

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Our Norwest - Bella Vista clinic is located within Q Central Building - opposite Norwest Private Hospital. Free Limited Parking is available within the Q Central Building. There is a drop off zone outside of the building. Paid parking is available opposite at Norwest Private Hospital. Additionally there is parking at Woolworths Norwest Circa (5 minutes walk from the Clinic)
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What do I bring to my appointment?

• Referral letter
• X-Rays/Scans
• Test results relating to referral
• Health fund card
• Medicare card