Gallbladder attacks are caused by deposits, called gallstones, that form in the gallbladder and become lodged in the bile duct. Gallbladder attacks are recognized by pain in the upper abdomen that is accompanied by nausea, vomiting, fever and chills. The attacks increase in severity and last from 30 minutes to several hours. If you have a gallbladder attack, seek emergency medical attention. The condition could be life-threatening. It is helpful to know how to ease the symptoms associated with gallbladder attacks.
Drink a glass of water at the onset of a gallbladder attack. Water regulates bile in the gallbladder and may decrease the attack's severity.
Stir together 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and a glass of apple juice. Drinking this may relieve gallbladder attacks.
Ask a medical professional which medicines ease the pain of a gallbladder attack. When speaking with your doctor, be sure to explain the level of pain you are experiencing.
Tip
Ask your doctor about using natural supplements that may prevent attacks. These supplements include aloe vera and lecithin.
Ask your doctor if you should use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which may reduce future attacks by preventing gallstones from forming.
If you suffer frequent attacks, consider altering your diet. Low-fat diets decrease the severity and frequency of gallbladder attacks.
If you continue to suffer attacks, ask your doctor about the benefits and risks associated with gallstone or gallbladder removal.
Warnings
The pain of a gallbladder attack can be similar to that of a heart attack. Seek medical attention for this type of severe pain.
Go to the emergency room if your attack does not subside after using these remedies. Gallbladder attacks that occur frequently and increase in pain may indicate an inflamed gallbladder. This condition can be life-threatening.
