DR TAPAS MISHRA

Tag: gallbladder stones

  • Gallstone Induced Problems Vs Acid Reflux – How to Know the Difference ?

    Gallstone Induced Problems Vs Acid Reflux – How to Know the Difference ?

    By Dr. Tapas Mishra | Senior Consultant – Advanced Laparoscopic GI & Bariatric Surgery

    If you’ve experienced a burning sensation in your chest or a sharp pain in your upper abdomen, you might wonder: Is this Acid Reflux or something more serious, like a Gallbladder infection

    Though both affect the digestive system, they are very different in cause, symptoms, and treatment. Recognizing the signs early can help you take the right steps for relief.

    What is a Gallbladder infection or cholecystitis

    A Gallbladder infection occurs when gallstones block the normal passage of gall bladder to common bile duct , causing a buildup of pressure and inflammation. It often occurs spontaneously or after a heavy or fatty meal and can last for several hours.

    Common Symptoms:

    • Sudden pain in the upper right abdomen
    • Pain that may radiate to the right shoulder or back
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Pain lasting 30 minutes to several hours
    • No relief from over-the-counter antacids

    The pain tends to come on quickly,   is colicky and doesn’t improve with rest or changes in posture. In some cases, fever or chills may also develop, signaling a more serious issue.

    What is Acid Reflux?

    Acid reflux, or Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the Esophagus. This backward flow causes irritation, often after eating or when lying down.

    Typical Symptoms:

    • Burning sensation in the chest (heartburn)
    • A sour or bitter taste in the mouth
    • Burping, bloating, and gas
    • Discomfort that worsens when bending over or lying flat
    • Relief with antacids or acid blockers

    Unlike an attack of cholecystitis, acid reflux is usually chronic and recurrent  and can occur daily or weekly, depending on diet and lifestyle.

    Key Differences at a Glance:

    IssueGallbladder infectionAcid Reflux
    Pain AreaUpper right abdomenChest/upper abdomen
    TriggerFatty/heavy mealsSpicy food, lying down
    Duration30 mins to hoursShort episodes, recurring
    Antacids Help?NoOften yes

     

    What You Can Do ?

    If you’re unsure which condition you’re experiencing, pay attention to the type, location, and timing of your symptoms. While acid reflux can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medications, gallbladder issues may require medical imaging or surgical intervention.

    Persistent or intense symptoms should never be ignored. If pain worsens or is accompanied by fever, seek prompt surgeon attention to avoid complications.

  • Gallstone Emergencies: Symptoms, Diagnosis & The Need for Surgery

    Gallstone Emergencies: Symptoms, Diagnosis & The Need for Surgery

    Gallstones are formed in the gallbladder due to  hardened deposits of normal liver bile fluid secretions either due to defective Gall bladder function or other conditions

    While many people with gallstones may not experience symptoms, in some cases, these stones lead to severe pain and life-threatening complications. Understanding the symptoms, diagnostic methods, and urgency of surgical intervention can help manage gallstone emergencies effectively.

    What Are Gallstones?

    Gallstones are formed when substances in bile—such as cholesterol, bilirubin, and bile salts—crystallize and harden. They can vary in size, from tiny grains to larger stones. They may develop due to factors such as obesity, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, diabetes,  sickle cell disease, defective Gall bladder function, or a high-cholesterol diet.

    Symptoms of a Gallstone Emergency

    Gallstones may remain asymptomatic for years, but when they obstruct the gallbladder bladder passage or bile ducts, they can trigger intense symptoms that require immediate medical attention.

    1. Severe Abdominal Pain (Biliary Colic)
    • Sudden, sharp pain in the upper right abdomen or just below the rib cage.
    • Pain may radiate to the right shoulder or back.
    • Often occurs after fatty meals and can last for several hours.
    1. Jaundice
    • Yellowing of the skin and eyes due to bile flow blockage in the biliary tract.
    • Indicates obstruction of the bile duct, possibly leading to cholangitis, severe pruritus and liver damage.
    1. Nausea and Vomiting
    • Persistent nausea, sometimes accompanied by vomiting, especially after eating.
    • May be a sign of gallstone-induced inflammation or infection.
    1. Fever and Chills
    • High fever with chills may indicate an infection such as acute cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) or cholangitis (blood infection due to blockage of the bile duct).
    • Requires immediate medical intervention to prevent sepsis.
    1. Dark yellow Urine and Pale Stools
    • Dark-coloured urine suggests excess bilirubin in the bloodstream.
    • Clay-coloured stools result from blocked bile flow, affecting digestion.
    1. Rapid Heart Rate and Low Blood Pressure

    In severe cases, gallstone complications can lead to shock, especially if infection spreads to the bloodstream (septicemia).

    Diagnosis of Gallstone Emergencies

    If gallstone complications are suspected, a series of tests are conducted to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.

    1. Ultrasound
    • The most common and non-invasive imaging test to detect gallstones.
    • Helps determine the presence of stones and signs of inflammation.

    Dr Tapas Mishra - Gallstones - Ultrasound

    1. Blood Tests
    • Elevated white blood cell count suggests infection or inflammation.
    • Liver function tests check for bile duct obstruction.

    Dr Tapas Mishra - Gallstones Treatment - Bhubaneswar

    1. CT Scan or MRI (MRCP – Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography)

    Used to detect stones in bile ducts and assess complications.

    Abdominal-CT-Scan-Dr-Tapas-Mishra-Gallstones-Removal-Bhubaneswar

    MRCP
    1. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

    A procedure that combines endoscopy and X-ray to detect and remove stones in bile ducts.

    Can also place a stent to relieve blockages.

    The Need for Surgery in Gallstone Emergencies

    When gallstones cause severe pain, infection, or complications, surgery is often the best treatment option.

    1. Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal Surgery)

    The most common and preferred treatment for recurrent gallstone attacks.

    A minimally invasive procedure with small incisions, less pain, and quicker recovery.

    1. Open Cholecystectomy

    Performed in complicated cases where laparoscopic surgery is not suitable.

    Requires a larger incision and a longer recovery period.

    1. ERCP for Stone Removal

    If stones are blocking the bile duct, ERCP can remove them without gallbladder removal.

    Often used for patients who are not candidates for surgery.

    Dr. Tapas Mishra - Gallstone Procedure - ERCP - Best GI Surgeon in Odisha
    Post Lap Chole ERCP stone clearance of CBD

    When to Seek Emergency Medical Care?

    • If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek immediate medical attention:
    • Intense and persistent abdominal pain.
    • High fever, chills, or jaundice.
    • Signs of sepsis, such as confusion, rapid heartbeat, or low blood pressure.

    Key Notes for Readers

    Gallstone emergencies can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly. Recognizing symptoms early and seeking timely medical care can prevent life-threatening conditions. In most cases, surgical removal of the gallbladder is the most effective long-term solution to prevent future attacks and complications.