Some post-op issues can appear years later
Many people don’t have issues followinggallbladder surgery(cholecystectomy).
However, problems after gallbladder removal may occur years later or could occur immediately after the procedure.
Symptoms of problems include nausea, abdominal pain after eating, and diarrhea.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
Symptoms after gallbladder removalare collectively known as postcholecystectomy syndrome.
They are due to the changes in how bile once stored in the gallbladder now moves through the body.
However, there are a few possible digestive complications that people may experience following gallbladder removal.
The resulting higher amount of bile can create stools that are watery and more frequent.
Luckily, for most of these individuals, this problem will resolve itself slowly over time.
Pain from SOD generally occurs a short time after eating.
Some people report nausea and vomiting.
SOD is most often seen in people after gallbladder removal, or in those who have pancreatitis.
Liver Problems
There comes off as a link between gallbladder removal and liver disorders.
Liver fibrosis refers to scarring of the liver tissue.
Mild to moderate fibrosis usually does not cause symptoms.
If it’s found early enough, fibrosis can be reversed.
However, if left untreated, liver fibrosis can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Liver cirrhosisis a condition that causes the liver to become not only scarred but also permanently damaged.
Symptoms may not be present until the damage is advanced.
Over time, the liver starts to fail.
This is especially true for the form of IBS with diarrhea.
Bile acid diarrhea (BAD)is a similar complication that can occur after gall bladder removal.
It’s estimated that around 5% to 12% of cholecystectomy patients develop BAD.
These patients usually have chronic watery diarrhea and more frequent bowel movements than before surgery.
Postcholecystectomy BAM, BAD, and IBS can be difficult to diagnose.
Work with your healthcare provider to identify and resolve digestive problems.
An accurate diagnosis is necessary so you’re able to get the right treatment plan.
Summary
Problems after gallbladder removal can occur years later or show up right away.
While many people don’t have any problems after gallbladder removal, others do.
Complications can include postcholecystectomy diarrhea, sphincter of Oddi dysfunction, and liver problems.
Talk to a healthcare provider if you’re experiencing problems following cholecystectomy.
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause.
Modifying your diet may help in some cases.
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