Have you been experiencing unexplained pain in your abdomen after meals or struggling with nausea that just won’t go away? Maybe you’ve noticed unusual changes in your digestion, strange shifts in your stool or urine color, or even a yellowish tint to your skin. These could be signs that something serious is going on with your gallbladder — and they shouldn’t be ignored.
At NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, we specialize in diagnosing and treating gallbladder conditions with minimally invasive techniques. If you’re dealing with symptoms that affect your quality of life, our expert team, led by Dr. Val Prokurat, is here to help you determine if gallbladder surgery is the best course of action. Let’s explore five major signs that it might be time to consider gallbladder surgery.
You’re experiencing sudden, severe abdominal pain
One of the most common and noticeable signs of gallbladder trouble is intense pain in your upper right abdomen, just below the rib cage. This pain can come on suddenly and often feels sharp or cramping. It may worsen after eating a fatty meal, as your gallbladder works harder to release bile for digestion. In some cases, the pain can radiate to your right shoulder or back, making it difficult to find a comfortable position.
Such pain is often caused by gallstones blocking the bile ducts, leading to inflammation and pressure inside the gallbladder. If you experience repeated attacks of abdominal pain, especially following meals, it may be time to consult NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions to discuss surgical options like laparoscopic or robotic gallbladder removal.
You have persistent nausea, vomiting, or digestive issues
While occasional nausea can have many causes, persistent or chronic nausea without an obvious reason, especially when accompanied by vomiting, bloating, or indigestion, may be linked to gallbladder disease. A malfunctioning gallbladder can disrupt the normal flow of bile, leading to frequent stomach upset and discomfort after eating.
In cases where gallstones or gallbladder inflammation are responsible, surgery may be the most effective way to restore digestive health. At NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, we take the time to properly diagnose the cause of your symptoms and offer minimally invasive techniques to relieve your discomfort and help you feel like yourself again.
You notice a yellow tint in your skin or eyes
Another symptom that could indicate it’s time for gallbladder surgery is jaundice, a yellowish discoloration of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Jaundice occurs when bile flow is obstructed, causing a buildup of bilirubin (a pigment found in bile) in your bloodstream.
Gallstones blocking the bile ducts are a common cause of jaundice. Because this can lead to liver damage and other complications if left untreated, it’s critical to seek medical evaluation. The team at NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions is experienced in identifying the root causes of jaundice and, when necessary, performing gallbladder surgery to prevent further health issues.
You have unexplained fever and chills
Fever and chills that appear without an obvious infection could be warning signs of a serious gallbladder infection, known as cholecystitis. When bile becomes trapped in the gallbladder due to a blockage, it can lead to inflammation and infection, which can quickly become life-threatening if not addressed.
If you experience a combination of fever, chills, abdominal pain, and nausea, you should seek immediate medical care. At NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions, we provide urgent evaluation and surgical intervention when needed, using advanced laparoscopic or robotic techniques to ensure a safe and smooth recovery.
You notice changes in your urine or stool
Another subtle but important sign of gallbladder problems is a change in the color of your urine or stool. Blocked bile ducts prevent bile from reaching the intestines, causing your stool to become pale or clay-colored. At the same time, excess bilirubin is excreted through the kidneys, making your urine darker than normal.
These symptoms are often overlooked or mistaken for other digestive problems, but they are strong indicators that your gallbladder may not be functioning properly. NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions can help you determine if gallstones or other issues are responsible, and whether surgical removal of the gallbladder is needed to restore healthy bile flow.
Expert gallbladder care at NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, it’s time to take your symptoms seriously. Gallbladder problems won’t resolve on their own, and delaying treatment can lead to serious complications. Fortunately, NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions offers expert diagnostic evaluations and state-of-the-art surgical options, including minimally invasive laparoscopic and robotic gallbladder surgery, to help you get back to living your life without pain or discomfort.
Under the care of Dr. Prokurat and our team, you can expect personalized treatment plans, fast recovery times, and outstanding surgical outcomes. Don’t wait until your symptoms worsen — schedule a consultation with NJ Advanced Surgical Solutions today.