These are some factors that may increase your risk for gallstones:
- Family history of gallstones
- Losing weight very quickly
- Eating a high-fat diet
- Sickle cell disease
- Inactive lifestyle
- Age 40 and over
- Diabetes
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Robotic Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal)
Many patients feel nervous about choosing surgery for gallbladder removal. However, robotic gallbladder surgery is faster and less invasive than traditional operation. It involves using surgical robots operated by skilled surgeons. This method allows for smaller incisions in the abdomen. Patients may go home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
The skilled surgeons at RGS are ranked among one of the trusted gallbladder removal surgeons near you in Austin. Don’t hesitate to schedule your appointment and overcome any surgery fears!
Understanding the Gallbladder
The gallbladder is a sac-like organ in the upper right belly. It’s connected to the liver and holds bile, which helps digest fats. When needed, the gallbladder releases bile into the gut to break down fats, making it easier for the body to absorb them.
Since the GB is just a storage organ, humans can survive without the GB without any problems or complications. Unfortunately, the GB can become diseased or develop stones, which then lead to symptoms requiring medical care.
What is A Gallstone?
Gallstones form from hardened cholesterol crystals in the gallbladder. Cholesterol gallstones are more common than Pigment gallstones (formed from excess bilirubin in the bile).
Symptoms of Gallstones
They can be mild or extreme, such as sudden pain in and around your stomach, chest, or back that intensifies, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal cramps or cramping, mild or severe. Bloating is also common after eating. Fever or chills can also occur if the gallbladder is inflamed or infected.
Some patients experience similar symptoms to a heart attack. Pain radiating into the chest, reflux, and burning in the upper abdomen/chest. Many times, a suspected heart attack is actually Gallbladder disease. These symptoms may last a few days a week or longer.
If you experience any of the above-mentioned symptoms, our specialists can help you with accurate diagnosis and treatment.