Santa Monica Treatment for Gallbladder Diseases

Bile is a digestive fluid that plays an important role in the digestive system. Created in the liver, bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the intestines to break down fatty foods. When the gallbladder does not function correctly, it can disrupt the digestive system and cause a variety of issues. For those living in Santa Monica, treatment for gallbladder disease is available through Dr. Danny Shouhed, one of the best gastrointestinal surgeons in the greater Los Angeles area.

The gallbladder is connected to both the liver and small intestines by bile ducts. When the liver, gallbladder and bile ducts are performing ideally, bile is transported to the gallbladder from the liver to be stored. Then it is released into the small intestines as fatty foods are consumed. Inflammation or formation of gallstones can contribute to gallbladder diseases and dysfunction. When the bile ducts become blocked or do not work correctly, bile can back up and cause serious health complications that require medical attention.

Symptoms of Gallbladder Disorders

The most common gallbladder disease is cholecystitis, an inflammation of the gallbladder that is usually caused by bile backup from gallstones. Other possible gallbladder disorders include cholangitis, biliary dyskinesia, cholelithiasis, choledocholithiasis and gallstones. The symptoms can vary depending on the disorder, but often, gallbladder diseases can cause sharp pain in the upper right abdomen that can radiate to the right shoulder or back. Patients can experience fever, vomiting, jaundice, changes in bowel movements and loss of appetite.

Treatment for gallbladder diseases can often require surgery. The gallbladder is not necessary for digestion. The gallbladder can be removed, and bile can flow directly from the liver to the small intestine. However, not all gallbladder disorders require surgery or removal of the gallbladder. Treatment can include medications and other therapies. If surgery is needed, Dr. Shouhed offers minimally-invasive options for clearing bile ducts or performing a cholecystectomy.

For those with gallbladder disorders in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica, treatment for gallbladder disease is available at the practice of Dr. Danny Shouhed. Contact our office in Santa Monica to schedule a consultation with Dr. Shouhed to discuss your treatment options.