Gallbladder Removal

The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ located below the liver in the upper right hand side of the abdomen. It connects to the liver and the intestines through small tubes or ducts. The gallbladder stores bile that is produced by the liver. Bile is a liquid substance that helps your body digest fatty foods. After you eat, your body begins the digestion process and the gallbladder contracts, sending bile through the intestines. If your gallbladder becomes infected, inflamed, blocked, or filled with gall stones, it may be necessary to remove your gallbladder. After the gallbladder is removed, bile is still produced by the liver, but it is continuously released through the intestines. Symptoms of gallbladder disease can include: indigestion, abdominal pain, nausea, fever, jaundice and rapid heart beat. Gallbladder disease is most common in women, but heredity, diet, obesity, and age are also important factors.