Infected Gallbladder Symptoms

According to the Mayo Clinic, people over the age of 60, women and people eating fewer than 800 calories a day are more likely to have gallbladder infections. Gallbladder infections, sometimes called gallbladder attacks, are usually a result of gallstones. Although many people get gallstones and do not have any symptoms, gallstones that block the ducts to other organs, such as the hepatic duct to the liver or the pancreatic duct, may cause sudden and intense pain.

Pain

• The most common symptom of gallbladder infections is pain in either the upper abdomen or between and around the shoulders.

Indigestion

• The gallbladder secretes substances such as bile that help the body break down food, and infection of the gallbladder may slow down digestion and cause acid reflux.

Nausea

• According to the Mayo Clinic, nausea and vomiting especially after eating fatty or fried foods are symptoms of gallbladder infection.

Jaundice

• Infection of the gallbladder may cause jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.

Fever

• A natural response to infection anywhere in the body, including the gallbladder, is fever, often accompanied by sweating and fatigue.

Prevention/Solution

• Gallbladder infections can be prevented by maintaining a healthy body weight and losing weight slowly if needed as well as eating foods with plenty of fiber and low in fat, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.

Warning

• Gallbladder infections that are not treated may spread into the small intestine, liver or pancreas, which may be life threatening.