Biliary Colic

What is Biliary Colic?

Biliary colic, also known as gallbladder attack, is a steady or intermittent pain in the upper abdomen, usually under the right side of the rib cage. It mainly occurs when gallstones temporarily block the bile duct during the contraction of the gallbladder. It increases the gallbladder wall tension. In many cases, the pain of this biliary colic resolves over 30 - 90 minutes, as the gallbladder relaxes and the obstruction is relieved.

Gallstones are a general case for a common man, because they rarely cause any symptoms and many people are unaware of their presence. Approximately one-third of the population which is affected by gallstones, will develop the painful symptoms of biliary colic.

Symptoms

The person suffering from biliary colic complains of an ache or pain in the upper-right part of the abdomen. In some cases, this pressure can spread towards the back of the right shoulder. Other symptoms include:

  • Nausea.
  • Vomiting.

 

Causes

Biliary colic is a steady or recurrent ache in the right upper part of the abdomen. The main reason for such pain is gallstones. If the gallstones block either of these ducts, the flow of bile into the intestine can be disrupted.

 

Risks

The main risk factors associated with an increased risk of cholelithiasis include:

  • Aging.
  • Increasing body weight.
  • Highly among female.
  • During pregnancy.
  • Medication such as oral contraceptives.
  • Family history.
  • Haemolytic disorders.

 

Prevention

To prevent gallstones pain, one should take the following prevention:

  • Maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
  • Avoiding fatty food and high-fat dairy products.
  • Dietary modification.

How is it diagnosed?

At Medanta, our doctor will diagnose by:

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How is it treated?

A health care provider will give medication and encourage to eat a fat-free diet. If the condition of biliary colic is repeating in a more severe form, then the gallbladder needs to be removed by surgery. A laparoscope is used for this purpose.

How does Medanta provide care?

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Consult with experienced doctors

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