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My Mom had her gallbladder removed about a year ago. She started having pain in her lower rib cage on the right side about 4 months ago. Two weeks ago she got sick to her stomach, flu like symptoms, vomitting and fever of 100. She also developed hives, which she's never had and they lasted for several days. Made her mouth swell and face. She felt so bad I took her to the ER. They said everything was normal except her liver enzymes were really elevated. They sent her home with an anti-nausea drug and told her to see her physician. The PA called and said in fact her liver enzymes were elevated and they wanted to see her because they were SO high. She has an appointment on Thursday. In the meantime, she had another attack and was vilontly vommitting and ran a fever of 101 for several days. She's broken out in hives again and is trying to control it with benadryl and oatmeal baths. My question is.... Could the gallbladder being removed, factor into her not being able to filter what's going into the liver and that's why she's getting sick? I know every body part has a purpose. I believe the purpose of the gallbladder is to act as a filter to the liver?? Has anyone else had their gallbladder removed and ended up being sick like this? What was the diagnosis? How are you managing it? As the Founder of EmpowHER, I'm so glad I have this resource when needed. I am truly stumped on this one and so desperatly want to help my mom. Thanks! MKR
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Hello MKR,
I can appreciate your concern and anxiety over your mother's recent health issues.
The gallbladder stores bile which is produced by the liver. In response to signals, the gallbladder squeezes stored bile into the small intestine through ducts. Bile helps digest fats, but the gallbladder itself is not essential. It does not act as a filter to the liver.
It is quite possible that your mother's symptoms are caused a retained common bile duct stone. A stricture of the common bile duct is another possibility. These two possible causes can cause an infection which is presenting itself with pain, fever and vomiting.
With further testing, particularly an MRCP or ultrasound, your mother's physician should be able to make a diagnosis.
All the best,
Maryann
July 29, 2013 - 5:08pmThis Comment