Gallbladder Disease and Fatigue

The gallbladder is an organ used in the digestive process. It stores bile for the liver, which it then releases into the small intestine to help breakdown fats. Removal of the gallbladder creates few side effects. If it becomes diseased, the usual approach is surgical removal.

Identification

• The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ located behind the liver. It is on the right side of the rib cage.

Effects

• Gallbladder disease affects the digestive process. The most common disease of the gallbladder is gallstones.

Description

• Gallstones are formed in the gallbladder. They contain cholesterol, bile salts, and calcium.

Fatigue

• Some people experience fatigue with gallbladder disease. Other digestive symptoms associated with gallbladder disease may cause the fatigue.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include gas, indigestion, burping, headaches, and constipation. As the disease progresses, most patients complain of pain under the right ribcage and between the shoulder blades.