5 Signs You Might Need Gallbladder Surgery

If you’ve been dealing with nagging abdominal discomfort, digestive issues, or unexplained pain after meals, your gallbladder might be trying to tell you something. Gallbladder problems, especially gallstones, are more common than you think, and in many cases, surgery is the most effective solution. 

At Medical Surgical Wellness Center LLC, located in Merrillville, Indiana, Dennis Streeter, DO, FAAOS, helps patients understand what’s going on and indicates whether gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy) might be the right next step. 

We’ll walk you through five key signs that could mean it’s time to talk to Dr. Streeter about gallbladder surgery. 

1. Persistent pain in the upper right abdomen 

Gallbladder pain often shows up in the upper right side of your abdomen, just beneath your rib cage. This pain might: 

• Come on suddenly and feel sharp or cramping 
• Last anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours
• Radiate to your back or right shoulder blade 
• Get worse after eating, especially fatty or fried foods

If this becomes a recurring issue, it could be a sign of gallstones blocking bile flow, which is a common reason for surgery. 

2. Nausea and vomiting after meals  

While occasional indigestion happens to all of us, frequent nausea or vomiting after eating (especially after rich meals) can be a red flag for gallbladder dysfunction. When bile can’t flow properly due to a blockage or inflammation, your digestive system struggles to break down food efficiently, leaving you feeling sick. You might also notice bloating, belching, and a heavy or uncomfortable feeling in your stomach after eating. 

3. Gallstone attacks (biliary colic)

Gallstone attacks are no joke. These painful episodes happen when a gallstone temporarily blocks the bile duct. You might experience: 

• Sudden, intense pain that peaks quickly
• Pain that lasts 1-4 hours, often at night or after a heavy meal
• Sweating, restlessness, or anxiety during the attack 

If these attacks start happening more frequently (or don’t resolve on their own), it may be time to consider removing the gallbladder to prevent complications.

4. Signs of infection or inflammation 

Sometimes, gallstones or sludge can lead to inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis). This condition is serious and usually requires prompt medical attention. Watch out for: 

• Fever or chills
• Tenderness in your abdomen when touched
• Yellowing of your skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Dark urine or pale stools 

These symptoms could indicate an infection or that a gallstone is blocking your bile ducts.

5. Ongoing digestive issues that don’t improve 

If you’re consistently struggling with digestive discomfort that doesn’t respond to medication, diet changes, or other treatments, your gallbladder may be the root of the issue. Over time, a malfunctioning gallbladder can affect your entire digestive system, leading to: 

• Poor fat digestion
• Chronic diarrhea
• Unexplained weight loss 

When your gallbladder no longer functions properly, removing it often leads to lasting relief and improved digestive health. 

Ultimately, while not every case of gallbladder discomfort requires surgery, ongoing or worsening symptoms shouldn’t be ignored. Gallbladder issues can escalate quickly and become dangerous if left untreated. 

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms above, don’t wait! Call 219-402-3040, or use our online booking tool to schedule an appointment with Dr. Streeter today.