Concern over Gallbladder Function at 22%
For more than ten years, I've been dealing with persistent gastrointestinal issues, including GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), and anxiety. Recently, however, the last three months have become particularly challenging. I've been experiencing intense heartburn and reflux, which have limited my diet to just yogurt, plain bread, and applesauce. I underwent a HIDA scan last week that revealed my gallbladder is only functioning at 22%. I have a consultation scheduled with a general surgeon next week. Given this finding, I am curious whether surgical intervention, such as removal, is likely, or if there is a possibility that I could maintain my gallbladder. Throughout my health journey, I've been plagued by heartburn, yet recently I've noticed increasing pain in my chest, particularly behind my right rib cage. This has led me to question whether my discomfort stems from gallbladder issues rather than the previously assumed heartburn and reflux.
Answers (1)
6/26/2025, 11:10:33 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you have been experiencing significant gastrointestinal issues and are understandably concerned about your gallbladder function and the associated symptoms. The HIDA scan showing your gallbladder functioning at only 22% suggests that there may be a reason to consider surgery, particularly if your symptoms are impacting your quality of life.
Explanation
Your gallbladder plays an important role in digesting fats by storing and releasing bile. When its function is low, as in your case, it can lead to complications and symptoms like those you've described—intense heartburn, reflux, and pain. The pain behind your right rib cage may be related to your gallbladder or could also relate to other gastrointestinal issues, such as gastritis or spasms from IBS.
Next Steps
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Prepare for Your Consultation: Take note of all your symptoms, their severity, and how they relate to your food intake. This will help the surgeon understand your situation more clearly. Consider mentioning how long you’ve been experiencing this chest pain and any changes in your symptoms.
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Dietary Adjustments: Since your diet is already limited, avoid known triggers for GERD and IBS, such as fatty, spicy foods, and caffeine. Stick to easily digestible foods, and try to eat smaller meals more frequently to minimize discomfort.
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Pain Management: If you experience significant pain, consider over-the-counter options like antacids for immediate relief, but be cautious with long-term use of proton pump inhibitors without medical advice.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your pain levels, frequency of heartburn, and any new symptoms. This information will be beneficial for your surgeon’s evaluation.
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Consider Treatment Options: Surgical removal (cholecystectomy) is often recommended when gallbladder function is significantly impaired and symptoms are persistent. However, your surgeon will consider your overall health, the severity of your symptoms, and your response to other treatments before making a recommendation.
You have the opportunity to discuss all of this in detail with your surgeon next week, so be open about your symptoms and express your concerns regarding both your gallbladder and ongoing issues with GERD and IBS. Look to that appointment as a pivotal moment in managing your symptoms effectively. Please feel free to reach out again if you have further questions.
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