How to Relieve Gallstone Pain
Things You'll Need
- Physical examination
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Prescription medication
- Gallstone-dissolving medication
- Surgical procedure
Instructions
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Get a physical examination. Your doctor will need to evaluate your symptoms by examining your abdomen to check for signs of rigidity, location of pain and organ inflammation. Your doctor might recommend further testing, such as medical imaging of your gallbladder. Your treatment will depend on the findings of your medical evaluation.
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Take an anti-inflammatory medication. Such over-the-counter products are effective for relieving gallstone pain and accompanying back pain. Do not take anti-inflammatory medication if you are taking medications to thin your blood---these can intensify the blood-thinning properties of your medication. Always check with your doctor first.
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Ask about prescription analgesics. If your pain is severe, ask your doctor to prescribe a pain reliever. Prescription analgesics are frequently opioid based and can dramatically reduce gallstone pain. These medications cause side effects such as drowsiness, confusion and constipation. Take prescription medications only when needed and do not drive when taking them.
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Inquire about gallstone-dissolving medication. If you are a poor surgical risk, or if you decide that surgery is not an option for you, ask your doctor about medication that dissolves gallstones. As your gallstones begin to dissolve, your pain will be relieved. Dissolving gallstones with these medications might take more than two years to work, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.
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Consider surgery. In acute cases of gallstones, surgery might be indicated. If left untreated, or if surgery is delayed, inflammation of the gallbladder or resulting infection can prove life-threatening. Your doctor will refer you to a surgeon who will discuss surgical options and post-operative instructions with you. Your doctor will offer a minimally invasive procedure called laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which uses small incisions and usually requires an overnight hospital stay at most.
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