Gallstones
While gallstones usually form in the gallbladder; they can be found in bile; in the intrahepatic, hepatic, common bile, and cystic ducts. Gallstones ofen do not cause any symptoms. They are often discovered when having a routine x-ray, abdominal surgery, or abdominal ultrasound. When gallstones move from the gallbladder into the cystic duct of common bile duct, it can lead to severe cramping pain in the upper right abdomen. This can last from a few minutes to a few hours. Cholesterol gallstones are more often noticed in women who are obese, on HRT or with elevated blood triglyceride. Black pigment gallstones are usually formed when there is increased destruction of RBC. Others who are likely to suffer gallstones are those suffering liver cirrhosis and biliary tract infections or sickle cell anemia. Gallstones can form when the gallbladder does not empty bile properly. Blood tests to check bilirubin, liver function test and pancreatic enzymes are often prescribed. In cases of severe painful episodes, cholecystectomy is performed.
Cholecystitis
Cholecystitis referes to severe abdominal pain associated with gallbladder inflammation or gallstones. Acute cholecystitis can manifest as sharp cramping pain in the right upper quadrant of the abdomen. It usually appears after a fatty meal. Cholecystitis might also lead to nausea and vomiting and often jaundice. Diagnostic tests that are prescribed to detect this condition are Liver function test, abdominal ultrasound and endoscopy. In many cases, cholecystitis can clear on its own, with the right low-fat diet and antibiotics. But in other cases, surgery may be needed to remove the gallbladder.
Dyspepsia
Dyspepsia or indigestion is a severe uncomfortable pain in the stomach accompanied by heartburn, burping, flatulence and vomiting. Symptoms of dyspepsia include upper abdominal fullness, bloating, nausea, belching and heartburn. Often dyspepsia is caused due to GERD. In some persons, dyspepsia symptoms are due to medications for high blood pressure and angina. Corticosteroids and NSAIDs can cause dyspepsia. Gallstones or duodenal ulcers can cause dyspepsia. Alcohol, caffeine and smoking aggravate the dyspepsia condition. Sometimes food allergies might trigger indigestion. Stress and anxiety contribute to dyspepsia symptoms. There is tenderness on palpitation of abdomen.
If there is blood in vomit or abdominal swelling, further investigations would be necessary. Tests are done to detect the presence of H. pylori bacteria. A gastrointestinal endoscopy can help detect peptic ulcer disease or other ulcerations with tissue and culture specimen. Barium studies aid in detecting any gastrointestinal disease. Treating dyspepsia is based on the causative factors. Antacids provide immediate relief from dyspepsia symptoms. They might be combined with alginates to reduce acid reflux. Lifestyle changes help in reducing discomfort and recurrence of indigestion symptoms. Cutting on fatty food and tea and coffee provides relief. Losing weight and reducing stress help tackle chronic indigestion symptoms.
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