Discomfort from Gallbladder Polyps
I’m a 31-year-old weighing 65 kg and currently taking Escitalopram on a daily basis, with a diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). Lately, I have been enduring intense pain localized in my gallbladder area, which has escalated significantly over the past three months. An ultrasound identified a few "polyps" and described the findings as a "focal gallbladder wall abnormality suspicious for adenomyomatosis." Unfortunately, I face an eight-month wait for a consultation with a surgeon. Enduring this persistent dull ache, in addition to episodes of sharp pain, is becoming unbearable. Could there be an alternative explanation for my symptoms? Would it be advisable to head to the emergency department for a second opinion? I am desperate for relief as I am in considerable distress and would appreciate any insights. I will upload the ultrasound images in the comments for further context.
Answers (1)
3/26/2025, 8:31:00 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear you’re experiencing significant discomfort. Gallbladder polyps and any associated abdominal pain can cause distress, especially when waiting for further medical evaluation. Here are some key points regarding your situation:
Main Points:
- Your gallbladder discomfort could relate to conditions other than polyps, such as gallstones or inflammation.
- It's essential to monitor your symptoms closely, and certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention.
Explanation: Gallbladder polyps are often benign and may not require treatment unless they cause symptoms or if their size raises concern. Your ultrasound noted "adenomyomatosis," which is generally a benign condition involving changes to the gallbladder wall. However, continuing pain can indicate other issues like gallstones or acute inflammation.
Since you're experiencing intense and worsening pain, it’s important to manage your symptoms and understand when to seek immediate care. Although a wait for surgery can be typical, your distress should not be overlooked.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Manage Pain: Try over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen (if you are not allergic and have no contraindications) to alleviate discomfort. Avoid medications like ibuprofen if you have a risk of gastrointestinal issues, especially with IBS.
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Dietary Adjustments: Stick to a low-fat diet temporarily, as fatty foods can exacerbate gallbladder pain. Increase your intake of fiber-rich foods that may help with IBS symptoms.
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Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, as this can help digestion and may ease discomfort.
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Symptom Monitoring: Keep a detailed diary of your pain—when it occurs, its intensity, and any other accompanying symptoms (like fever, yellowing of skin/eyes, or changes in stools). This will be useful if you consult a medical professional.
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Seek Urgent Care: If you experience severe symptoms such as persistent severe pain, fever, jaundice (yellow skin/eyes), or vomiting, consider visiting the emergency department sooner than planned. These could indicate complications that require immediate intervention.
Supportive Notes: It's completely understandable to feel anxious when dealing with persistent pain. You’re not alone, and taking these steps should provide some immediate management while you wait for a full consultation. Let me know if you have more questions or need further assistance.
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