Gallbladder operation

[Tanyaking]

Have any members suffered with gallbladder stones and blocked ducts as well as thyroid problems? Did it help you to treat it or have it removed? I'm facing this at the moment on top of a huge lot of struggles and would really appreciate some wise words of hope.many thanks.x

[jimh111]

Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is a very successful operation provided you are suffering from gallbladder problems. i.e. have a diseased gallbladder (or stones) WHICH ARE CAUSING SYMPTOMS. A potential downside is bile reflux into the stomach. This happened in my case but it resolved when my hypothyroidism was diagnosed and treated. I suspect the reduced motility in hypothyroidism fails to move on the bile quickly enough.

In any event if you have a diseased gallbladder it will become inactive and hence removing it will make no difference to the release of bile.

So, if you have symptoms that are caused by a diseased gallbladder or gallstones then it is a very good idea to have it removed. It will only get worse, which will lead to episodes of severe pain and possibly hospitalisation. It makes sense to try and do a bit of exercise before the operation and gentle exercise starting a day or so after. This gives a better and quicker recovery.

The really important question is whether your gastrointestinal problems are caused by the gallbladder. About half the population will end up with gallstones - the vast majority will never suffer from them. Vague symptoms of abdominal pain or bloating and the presence of gallstones do not confirm the need for an operation. Be guided by your gastroenterologist. If a stone has been lodged in the bile duct (confirmed by an ultra-sound) then certainly have the operation. Blood tests ("LFTs") taken during an episode of substantial pain can also confirm gallbladder problems. So, if you have this sort of confirmation definitely go for the op, it will only get worse in time. If you have abdominal problems and happen to have stones then this really isn't enough to justify going ahead.

[5858]

I went undiagnosed for awhile my TSH was like 95 and antibodies like 2600. So I think it damaged my Gallbladder. I am so glad I got it out. I had plenty of stones they didn't know until they went in......... it was about ready to go and could have poisoned my system ............then it would have been an emergency mess meaning not laparoscopic. While they were in the they took a cyst off my liver that was like the size of and egg ........I also think my system caused that........ and why not have my hernia repaired at the same time LOL......Like anything a little recovery with meds ........stayed in the hospital for one night. All went well and I don't have the nagging pain I use to have! They said I must have had several bad attacks by the way things looked.......I never had a horrible one but I have heard it can be awful ..........that also helped me...... to make the decision.....On and on I go. I wish you all the best xoxo Susita

[MariLiz]

Yes I've had my gall bladder removed, I had what they call gravel, lots of small stones. Such a relief to be rid of the pain, which flared at such inconvenient times. I had a laparoscopic operation, which means they use air to inflate the stomach. This causes a bit of pain afterwards, but on the whole it wasn't too bad.