Treatment Options for Gallbladder Attack

Treatment Goals

A gallbladder attack, also known as a gallstone attack, acute cholecystitis, or biliary colic, refers to a sudden and intense pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. It occurs when gallstones, which are small, hard deposits made of cholesterol or bilirubin, block the bile ducts and prevent the proper flow of bile from the gallbladder.

The main objective of treatment for a gallbladder attack is to relieve pain, resolve symptoms, and prevent complications.

Treatment may depend on individual factors, such as the size of the gallstone, whether gallbladder attacks are recurring, and other medical conditions. Most episodes pass after 1 to 5 hours but seek medical care right away if symptoms suggest complications.

Treatment Options

The goals of treatment for a gallbladder attack are to relieve pain, resolve symptoms, and prevent complications. In some cases, treatment may occur in a hospital. Here are the different types of treatments and how they work to achieve these goals:

Fasting: Not eating or drinking may be recommended to avoid stressing the inflamed gallbladder. If you cannot eat or drink, you may be hospitalized to receive fluids through a vein in your arm to prevent dehydration.

Medications:

Pain medications: These help to ease the pain associated with a gallbladder attack. In some cases, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) may be prescribed. For more severe pain, an opioid pain reliever may be prescribed.
Anti-nausea drugs: Relieve symptoms of nausea and vomiting.
Ursodeoxycholic acid (ursodiol): This is an oral drug that helps dissolve cholesterol gallstones. It may be used if the pain goes away on its own or if there are no symptoms.
Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed If the gallbladder has become infected.

At-home comfort measures while seeking care:

Making changes to your diet and exercise routine.
Applying heat can be soothing and relieve pain.

Therapeutic procedures:

Cholecystectomy: This is surgical removal of the entire gallbladder and prevents future gallstones and attacks.
Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): Used to find and remove gallstones in the bile duct.
Percutaneous cholecystostomy tube: A drainage procedure for the gallbladder.

Other treatments may be recommended. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for an individual's specific situation. Remember, these treatment options may vary depending on the severity and specific characteristics of each case.

Medication doses can vary based on individual factors. Talk with your health care professional to make sure your dose is right for you, and to learn more about possible side effects. You can also read the information that comes with your medication.