Frequently Asked Questions

1. QUESTION:
   how can I get ready my gallstones with out operations ?
   HOW CAN YOU PREPERED EACH MEALS LAST THAN A 100 CAL. AND 10 CARB.? ITS VERY EAZY COST LITTLE AND ALSO TAKES 5 MIN.

   • ANSWER:
     You can't get rid of gallstones without an operation.

2. QUESTION:
   Does anybody know much about the operation to remove Gallstones?
   My partners mother needs 2 Gallstones removed but is determined to rely on folk medicine to cure them. I have little knowledge on the effect of Gallstones on a persons life or the operation required to remove them, I am hoping somebody can provide me an idea of whether any type of folk medicine really can help her (I'm very skeptical) or if anybody can give me an idea how easy the operation would be for her? Any help will be most gratefully appreciated.

   • ANSWER:
     They removed my gallbladder in order to remover the stones and prevent others in the future. The operation was simple and painless with minimum scarring. 3 small punctures in the abdomen and a cut at the navel. I stayed in the hospital for less than 48 hours. It was quite painful when the gallbladder got inflamed. Also for years my back hurt and got cramps but once it was removed all symptoms cleared up

     They can in lieu of taking out the gall bladder do a sonogram and break down the stones that are then passed out.

     I am not sure what folk medicine can do. I heard about drinking cranberry juice to either dissolve or prevent. That part of the treatment is sketchy.

3. QUESTION:
   has anybody got rid of gallstones without an operation?
   I was just wondering because I have them and my mum thinks an operation is only way.

   • ANSWER:
     honey, i had gallstones super bad last year.. it was the worst pain i have ever felt in my stomach. it sucked. i got my operation done a day before new years. its really not that bad of an operation. you should do the surgery, or you will be sorry in the long run.

4. QUESTION:
   What are the risks during a Gallstone operation?
   My mum is 42, and she's having her gallstones removed. Now I wouldn't be as worried but when we saw the doctor he said it was a medium to high risk operation which got me worrying.
   Also, the doctor said, since my mum has multiple complications, to be safe, their doing a operation and not keyhole.

   My mum has epilepsy, blood clots and a family history of complications in surgery.
   I would be more than grateful, if some one could please inform me of the complications during a gallstone operation.

   • ANSWER:
     she will do fine,easy in and out operation

5. QUESTION:
   Do you have gallstones or gallbladder stones?
   If you are anyone you know who have gallstones or gallbladder stones, just let me know and I am very willing to help you. I am expert in the natural process of removing gallstones, I just did it to myself before and many of my friends and they were very glad they didn't undergone surgery operations.

   • ANSWER:
     I currently do not, but i admire your drive to help this problem!

     Keep it up because hard work pays off!

6. QUESTION:
   What dietary regimen does one follow to help a cat recovering from a gallstone operation? ?
   Our cat has undergone a gallstone removal operation and we were wondering what to feed it?

   • ANSWER:
     Hi Tim... your veterinarian should have made a recommendation as to what diet is appropriate for your cat. Generally, it's best to avoid any table scraps, commercially sold dry pet food which is high in carbs that cats do not require in their diet as they are obligate carnivores. Consider a canned food diet that is devoid of any preservatives, chemical additives such as BHT, BHA, Ethoxyquin, by-products...Here's more about what to look for to avoid feeding: http://www.acreaturecomfort.com/truthaboutpetfood.htm

     Most of all commercial pet food (e.g. IAMS, Science Diet, Purina...etc) contains these harmful ingredients. Consider premium diets found in small pets stores. Brand such as:
     Innova EVO, California Natural... http://www.naturapet.com/brands/
     Nature's Variety Prairie http://www.naturesvariety.com/product_choices_cat
     Felidae http://www.canidae.com/
     Wellness http://www.oldmotherhubbard.com/
     Orijen http://www.championpetfoods.com/orijen/products/
     and many more are completely devoid of the aforementioned ingredients. You can locate a nearby retailer by visiting each of the manufacturer's website.

7. QUESTION:
   Pre-operation preparation for a cholecystectomy (removal of gallstones and gallbladder)?
   I am wondering what patients with chronic cholecystitis (recurring gallstones in the gallbladder) have to do before surgery. Is there a fasting period or something like that? I am just wondering what they have to do before the operation to get ready for it

   • ANSWER:
     there is no preparations for gallbladder removal specifically.
     you will be asked to reframe from eating or drinking after midnigt before you surgery but that is standard for any surgery.

8. QUESTION:
   gallstones operation?
   im having an gallstones operation soon, age 14
   how long will i have to stay in hospital and of school?
   and is it likely ill gain weight becuase of it

   • ANSWER:
     my boyfriend was off work for two weeks after his op, but was home within a couple of days.

     He lost weight after the op, and now does not gain weight as easily.

9. QUESTION:
   Do other people get these symptoms of gallstones?
   I may have gallstones, to be confirmed with a scan.I have had severe burning in my stomach, vomiting and retching lasting 24 hours.

   I am left with a very painful stomach, feeling very bruised especially on the right. At the start, I also had a burning under my right shoulder.
   Have you had an operation to remove the gallbladder?
   I would love to hear from you if you have suffered this please!

   • ANSWER:
     I had gallstones about 7 years ago. Twice I went to the ER and they said it was nothing that i was fine. By the third time I went I was literally hours from death. The infected gallbladder had damaged my liver and pancreas. If u do have the gallstones, get the surgery. I couldn't keep anything down I lost like 20 pounds, I eventually quit eating altogether and yet still dry heaving. If you get pain in your right side go to the ER because I had that pain and it was liver damage.

     Gallstones do suck I'll give you that one. The downside to all of this is some peoples digestive system don't work the same. I cannot eat any greasy fatty foods unless I want to jump up from the dinner table with diarrhea. You will have to completely change your diet if your a greasy junk food eater.

10. QUESTION:
    Keeping gallstones after operation?
    When people go in to get their gallstones removed, after removal, are people allowed to keep them?

    • ANSWER:
      i think it depends on who your surgeon is and what hospital, cause i had mine taken out and they wouldnt allow me to keep it. biohazard or whatever they call it. said that they used to allow people to keep them but now by law they cant. who knows though depending on your surgeon you might get too. i think it would have been cool to see what was causing all that pain in the first place.

11. QUESTION:
    why do i still have pain after my gallstone operation?
    after 6 years of not knowing what was wrong with me i found out i had gallstones (oct 2009). i went into hospital (feb 2010) and had my gallbladder and gallstones removed.( they were about 2 cm wide and i had 4 of them). but sometimes i get the same pain in my chest that i had before my operation. can anyone tell me why this is and how to get rid of it! the other day it was really bad!

    • ANSWER:

12. QUESTION:
    What is best for gallstones for a 67year old?
    My nan is 67 and has gallstones and really dont want to have a operation and shes herd of guaratee tablets(from america ) if not money back.

    Please can anyone tell me whats best for her ?
    that wont leave her in agony

    Thanks

    x x

    • ANSWER:
      Listen please. If she waits to long, she may not be able to make a choice. The sooner she gets something done the better off she will feel. I did not want surger at all, but they were able to do it laproscopically. Rather then the "traditional" cut.

      I encourage you to talk to her and just have her get it done. Sure she will have pain in her belly button but she will be able to EAT again with out heartburn. I was so happy to be able to eat again.

      Dont go on some guarantee seeking search for a miracle cure- this will not go away on its own. Believe me I tried to put it off.

      She won't be in agony, and she will thank YOU later. I hope you listen and just tell her she needs to do as the Dr recommends. Have surgery, but ask the dr if she can will be able to get by laproscopically. I think this is what is best. I would say otherwise.

      keep in touch and take care of her-ok
      i'll say extra prayers for her!

13. QUESTION:
    Gallstones Operation?
    Hi all

    Can any1 help. Does any1 know how long you have to stay in hospital after having laparoscopic surgery for Gallstones and how long you have to wait to travel abroad

    Thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      You will be treated as an out-patient in all probability, so no overnight stay!

      Travel depends on you and what the doctors feel about how quickly you personally would need to leave it.

14. QUESTION:
    I have gallstones and they fill my gallbladder, is it advisable to have my gallbladder removed by operation?
    Based on my upper stomach ultrasound, several stones are found in my gallbladder. I suffer from ocassional stomach ache in my upper stomach and colic.

    • ANSWER:
      As the bile crystals aggregate to form stones, they move about, eventually occluding the outlet and preventing the gallbladder from emptying. This creates symptoms.
      It also results in irritation, inflammation, and sometimes infection of the gallbladder. The pattern is usually one of intermittent obstruction due to stones moving in and out of the way. All the while the gallbladder is becoming more scarred. Sometimes infection fills it with pus—a serious complication.
      On occasion a stone will travel down the cystic duct into the common bile duct and get stuck there. This will back bile up into the liver as well as the gallbladder. If the stone sticks at the Ampulla of Vater, the pancreas will also be plugged and will develop pancreatitis. These stones can cause a lot of trouble. Bile is composed of several waste products of metabolism, all of which are supposed to remain in liquid form. The complex chemistry of the liver depends on many chemical processes, which depend in turn upon the chemicals in the diet and the genes that direct those processes. There are greater variations in the output of chemical waste products than there is allowance for their cohabitation in the bile. Incompatible mixes result in the formation of solids. Gallstones will cause the sudden onset of pain in the upper abdomen. Pain will last for 30 minutes to several hours. Pain may move to the right shoulder blade.

15. QUESTION:
    Are gallstones hereditary?
    My aunt had an gallstone operation. After 2 years it was discovered that her son also had stones in the gallbladder.So i wanted to that are gallstones hereditary?

    • ANSWER:
      read

      http://www.surgery.usc.edu/divisions/tumor/pancreasdiseases/web%20pages/BILIARY%20SYSTEM/LAP%20CHOLE-GALLSTONES.html

      GALLSTONES
      In many people the cause for gallstones appears to be interaction between hereditary causes and the diet. Certain population groups such as the Latino ...

16. QUESTION:
    Gallstones....operation ? 10 points : )?
    I have gallstones which was found out after several attacks and an ultrasound scan.... well now im being sent for an MRI scan as my surgeon thinks i have a stone in my bile duct up to the live.... now im wondering if, i havnt had an attack in three weeks. Does this mean the stones maybe moved? they couldnt see a clear enough image on the ultrasound but i was told i have several moving stones.

    I aint having any pain at the moment. or if i do i have a slight niggle of pain?
    Do you think they have gone, even if they have will i still need surgury?
    Thank you.

    • ANSWER:
      Hello,

      Having your gallbadder removed is not what should worry you te most.Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is safe and only minimal postoperative discomfort is usually related to this procedure.I think that you are more t risk to undergo painful phenomenoms if you keep a lithiasic gallbladder in your body,your gallstones can get impacted not only into your common bile duct inducing a biliary colic,they can also get trapped in the duct that leads to your pancreas creating a life-threatening and excruciatingly painful infection of this organ called pancreatitis.Gllstones can also in some cases lead to an inflammation of the galbladder itself which iscalled cholecystitis that can lead to rupture and peritonitis.
      Your gallstones won't go by themselves or due to any medical treatment other than gallbladder removal and as long as you have a gallbladder new stones can form and create the complications that I described to you.So you shouldn't hesitate toi have the surgery done it really is no big deal nowadays you will be walking a few hours after waking up and you will be home on the following day.Symptomatic gallstones are treated like this,no doctor would refuse you the treatment that can relieve you from pain and avoid you painful complications.
      Good Luck.

17. QUESTION:
    what is percentage of death in gallstones out operation....?
    actually tommorow is my operation so i want to know about percentage of death in laposatic operation,,,,,i am v much afraid

    • ANSWER:
      the % is very low...i had the same operation and didnt have any complications, very simple, esay operation....had it on a friday and went back to work on monday

18. QUESTION:
    How can I ease the pain of a gallstones attack?
    And how come someone who has chosen to have a hysterectomy (when other options are available and cheaper) have their operation BEFORE someone else has a necessary Gallbladder removal operation? At the same hospital?
    I been getting on average 2 serious attacks per week for the past 15 months.

    I was diagnosed in Feb and had an ultrasound in June. I've been referred to a specialist but have yet to meet him (the NHS waiting time target has well passed!) I just need to know how best to cope. : )

    • ANSWER:
      pain medication, and hotwater bottles. Best way is to avoid a gallbladder attack. Stay away from fatty foods before your surgery.

      RE: the hysterectomy going before the gallbladder.
      The doctor (surgeon) calls the hospital to book OR time depending on his schedule and what OR suites are available at that hospital.
      Maybe your doctor was busy on days the OR suites were available etc...
      Your doctor tells them whether the surgery needs to be done stat..an emergency, ASAP..within a day or so, or an elective surgery, which can be done whenever.

      Ps...If you have been waiting since Febuary I would find another Doctor. Go to ER your next attack.

19. QUESTION:
    What is the best remedy for treating gallstones?
    is there any method that will not need operation?

    • ANSWER:
      YES BUT I DON'T THINK THAT IT IS DONE VERY OFTEN AND THAT IS BY USE OF ULTRA SOUND TO BREAK UP THE STONES

20. QUESTION:
    Is there a non surgical way or diet to treat gallstones?
    The doctor said I have cholelithiasis, he suggest a minor operation. I don't really like to undergo anymore operation is there a good diet or alternative medicine that can treat this?

    • ANSWER:
      TOO RIGHT THERE IS!

      Don't just listen to the quacks. Go see a Naturopath. The cleanses for removing gallstones are quick, easy and efficient, there is no reason for removing your gall bladder.

      Only have it removed in emergency situations - but don't do the cleanses on your own - go see a qualified naturopath who can teach you to do them properly.

      Yes, they stones can come back in time, but the cleanses are too easy too do to remove them again AND you NEED your gall bladder. It is not a useless part in your system - a good Naturopath will help you find the answers to why they are forming and sort the cause of the problem.

      Removing the gall bladder will just fix a symptom and leave you with the cause of the problem, no gall bladder and a rich doctor. Just do a search for "liver" or "gallbladder cleanse" to see the volume of info that there is out there about this.

      Hope that helps.

21. QUESTION:
    WORKING OUT after a gallstone operation?
    Tomorrow is my gallstone operation, it's tiny
    but I haven't exercised n worked out in sooo long and I miss it
    it's an in and out operation.. I don't even have to stay overnight lol

    So how long do you think I'll have to wait till I can start working out n exercising?

    • ANSWER:
      Your doctors will say for sure. I was told several weeks.

22. QUESTION:
    I had gastric bypass done, at the time I had gallstones that the surgeon was supposed to?
    remove at the time of the operation--he didnt do it, he told me husband in the recovery room that he must not have read the report clear through so i had to have another surgery to have the gallbladder removed, is this a malpractice issue? I am just curious. or do you think it was just a stupid oversight by the doctor?

    • ANSWER:
      malpractice is a result of serious injury to the patient.

23. QUESTION:
    gallstones (what to eat and what not to eat, to stop any sharp pains)?
    doing a essay on different parts of unwanted parts in body. so my family is all had gall stones, how do you prevent operations, what diet should you be on. thanks in adavance
    what happeneds if they burst, will you die or can it be treated. this really seems a good topic for my essays. thanks keep the answers coming all help is great.

    • ANSWER:
      I had gallstones years ago, i saw a specialist to get it diagnosed as the doctor hadn't a clue what was causing all the pain.
      They did a scan and found it was gallstones. The surgeon told me, in the run up to the operation, to avoid all fat in my diet as this causes the gallstones to agitate and then they try to get through the bile duct, causing the pain, he also told me that to put a hot water bottle on the right side, will ease the pain, they don't know why but it does.
      Too much cholestrol in the body is one of the causes , so a low fat diet would help prevent them forming.
      You can find more information on this page.
      http://hcd2.bupa.co.uk/fact_sheets/html/gallstones.html

24. QUESTION:
    Gallstone removal how much it will cost me?
    anyone knows how much it will cost me for removal of gallstone by operation? and which doctor should i see?
    or maybe any recommendation for diet and medicine/vitamins.
    i ve heard people says that by drinking olive oil could cure the disesase
    but i am not quite sure on how to drink it
    are we supposed to really "drink" it or is there any other way to consume it?
    after the removal is will the stones grow again?
    i mean any specific doctor, name and hospital maybe, should i see? cos i m a foreigner in singapore. thanks for answering.

    • ANSWER:
      Go see your primary card doc and they will refer you to a Gastrointerologist.
      My wife just had her gallbladder removed. Our co-pay was 0 for a ,000 surgery.

25. QUESTION:
    is continuous sickness a symptom of gallstones?
    i have been diagnosed with gallstones and having an operation in a weeks time, but every meal i eat almost comes straight back up, i am worried they might find something else

    • ANSWER:
      Yes that's usually a symptom when it comes to anything w/ the gallbladder. My mom had to have hers removed & getting sick half the time was one major symptom in helping the doctors determine that it was a malfunctioning gallbladder.

      If the gallbladder isn't working properly then it makes you sick because it can't help produce bile & such to aid in the break-down & digestion of your food. This is why you have to change your diet for a while once the thing is removed because then the liver has to work overtime to compensate.

26. QUESTION:
    How can I alleviate this discomfort? (Gallstones) ?
    I'm 17 and I have gallstones. I'm going to the surgeon two days before Thanksgiving to schedule an operation to get my gallbladder removed. But what can I do to alleviate the discomfort I feel in my abdomen?

    • ANSWER:
      I can't believe your doctor didn't give you anything! I had that, and a hot bath always worked for a little while anyway. Pills made it go away. Stay away from any greasy food too, that will make the pain come. GL

27. QUESTION:
    Has anyone got any experience of having gallbladdersurgery to remove gallstones ?
    Having surgery a week today first time having a general and a operation petrified of having both

    • ANSWER:
      I've had several surgeries and all were successful. For me, the worst part was getting an IV. Nurses have so much trouble placing one in my wrist or arm. Most people recover from a cholecystectomy and get sent home the same day. You should be back in your feet the following day. Avoid strenuous activity or reaching above your head for a week or two to permit proper healing.

      Your doctors will prescribe pain medication, most likely Vicodin. I needed a single 2mg Morphone pill to get into bed at home and then never needed another pill. Everyone will be different.

      After surgery I no longer have any dietary restrictions. However, my bowel movements have changed.

      Cholecystectomy is the most common surgery performed in the US. It is relatively safe and effective.

      You can get good information from Wikipedia too
      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cholecystectomy

      Best wishes for a normal surgery!

28. QUESTION:
    I have gallstones ,2 of them are just over an inch in size and there are also some smaller ones?
    i have got to go the doctors to discuse them ,do you think i will need to have a operation ,as they do cause me a lot of pain.

    • ANSWER:
      i had it done in 93 i was out of work for 21/2 weeks, it is now done with laser and you'll have four little scars that you won't really notice as time goes on.

29. QUESTION:
    How often do you feel unwell after gallbladder removal?
    How often have you felt unwell after your gallbladder, gallstone removal operation? what are your symptoms, on the whole do you feel better than you did before the operation, or worse how long ago did you have the operation and how you feel daily?
    Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Within 4 days to a week for me.

30. QUESTION:
    Gallstones, waiting for operation but pains getting worse?
    Okay so I was diagnosed with gallstones two days ago in a&e and the surgeon said they would send out an appointment for 6-8 weeks time. He gave me paracetamol and some anti-biotics.

    They only problem is the pain is getting even worse now and lasting for longer than before, the paracetamol aren't even touching the pain. I would go to my normal doctor but I know there's not alot that he can do.

    Would I need to go back the hospital? I really don't think I can cope with this pain for another 6-8 weeks (and normally I'm REALLY good with pain, but this is just getting worse).

    • ANSWER:

31. QUESTION:
    Gallstones - Pain after Operation?
    My father went through an operation to remove his gall bladder via keyhole surgery about 6 weeks ago.The operation was fairly complicated at the time, but went well.
    He knew to expect pain and discomfort following the operation, but has been experiencing pain almost exactly like he was getting from stone attacks. They weren't too often in the first few weeks but this last week or two have become much more regular, every day at the moment. The only difference is the pain is not lasting as long as it was before the op, often just a couple of minutes. 2 weeks ago he saw the consultant for a follow up who reiterated that everything went well and the continued pain was normal and will go over time, but my father is quite worried. Has anyone else had similar experience or know whether this is a common thing after the surgery?

    • ANSWER:
      Per my own informal research (I know lots of people who've had the operation), residual gall bladder pains even a year after surgery is common. I had my gall bladder out almost two years ago and I still get a twinge every now and again. Please assure him that it's normal for him to experience this pain and that it will lessen in both intensity and frequency over time. I'm glad he's doing better now and I wish him well in continued recovery.

32. QUESTION:
    Is it ok to drink alcohol if you've gallstones, and awaiting operation to remove gallbladder. Please answer!?
    hi, my sister was admitted to hospital about a month ago with severe abdominal pain. It turned out she has gallstones and her gallbladder was a little inflamed. She is having keyhole surgery on jan 13 for removal of gallbladder. What i'm asking is With Christmas coming up is it ok for her to drink alcohol, or will it aggravate the gallstones. Her 26th birthday is also next week and there is a party so she would obviously like to have a drink. What drink would be best to have. Does fizzy drinks aggravate it more ie, bottles of bud, cider things like that, or even fizzy mixers? She got no advice when being discharged about things to avoid when eating and drinking. Only just to stay away from fatty foods.. Thanks for helping...

    • ANSWER:
      A sensible amount of alcohol should not affect her gall stones directly, whatever the type. However those with gall stones are at risk of pancreatitis which is affected by alcohol.

33. QUESTION:
    I had my operation yesterday, should I go grocery shopping?
    I had a gallstone operation yesterday
    and I'm just wondering if I should go grocery shopping since it involves a lot of walking . ..

    but my parents don't know what to get that's why I need to go
    ugh I don't know

    should I?

    • ANSWER:
      seriously this is something the doctor should tell you not us on yahoo answers

34. QUESTION:
    oct last week i'd an operation 4 gallstone.so ven can i start doin exercise,also tel som ways to reduce fat

    • ANSWER:
      u can do walking and swimming now if your doctor allows you.

      others after 6 months

35. QUESTION:
    Haemachromatosis and Gallstones/Gall Bladder issues?
    I have haemachromatosis (iron overload in my blood) and have also just found out I have a gallstone and gallbladder infection. My galbladder is to be removed as it is not functioning. I was wondering if my gallbladder issue could be related to my haemachromatosis - I would love to hear from people with similar situation or medical staff who could advise. Also would this blood disease potentially mean an open operation as opposed to laprascopey?

    • ANSWER:
      Hi there, hamachromatosis runs in my husbands family. His mom, uncle, and many other relatives have it. So far he is in the clear but has to have his liver enzymes and iron stores checked regularly. From all of the research I've done on the disease I haven't seen any links to problems with the galbladder but then again every disease affects each individual differently. It can however damage the liver and pancreas as I'm sure you're well aware. You are very lucky to know you have this managable disease! Most people are not diagnosed until it is too late. My husband's uncle experienced liver damage before being diagnosed but had he not found out, none of his family members would have been tested, so it turned out to be a lifesaver in more ways then one. I now know that I have to watch my children once they're older. I don't believe the disease will have any effect on the surgery your doctor opts for. Take care and good luck!

36. QUESTION:
    I HAVE GALLSTONES. WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AT THE OPERATION 2 REMOVE MY GALL BLADDER?
    I have been experiencing abdomen pain, sickness,back pain, and feeling very unwell for just over a month. Recently it has been that bad i could hardly walk or do anythign. Eating made it worse. I went for a scan and was put on tramadol painkillers for the pain, although they now rarely work as well.
    my scan results showed gallstones, and my gp has advised i have the gall bladder removed.
    does anyone know what causes gallstones?
    does anyone know what to expect at the operation?
    How long is the stay?
    What pain should i expect?
    How quick is the operation usually arranged?
    I am quite worried. I am just in so much pain, and want this deallt with sooner rarther than later

    Any advice apreciated!! thank you

    • ANSWER:
      For the time being, avoid or minimize fatty foods like fried dishes, cheese, whole milk and butter.

      Mine was removed laparoscopically with three small incisions. The scars mostly disappear after a year or so and it isn't a problem unless you model. They keep you in the hospital for a day and some people go back to work a day later. I needed a single morphine pill to climb into bed after going home and never needed any other pain medication. Most people do fine with Vicodin and if you are a real pain freak they can give you Morphine pills.

      You CANNOT cleanse your gall bladder. Anyone telling you otherwise is trying to sell you a product or doesn't know about medicine.

      If you have an attack it is possible doctors will want to remove your gall bladder. The operation is performed laparascopically now and you leave the hospital the next day. Some people recover in a day. I needed 2-3 days recover due to other issues.

      Please consult your personal physician for qualified advice.

37. QUESTION:
    What amount of time should be left between General Anastetics?
    I'm due to have two operations soon - one dental and the other to remove my gallbladder. I received the letter with a date for my dental today but am worried if it clashes with the gallbladder one (still waiting for that date).
    My gallstones are affecting my quality of life whereas my teeth aren't so obviously the gallbladder removal is more important so i'm not sure what to do for the best - can anyone help?

    • ANSWER:
      It would need to have a timeframe of a few weeks at least between procedures, but I would recommend gettig a hold of your regular doctor to let them know what's going on.

38. QUESTION:
    does anesthia during gallstone operation cause further cognitive decline if patient has moderate severe dement?

    • ANSWER:

39. QUESTION:
    Gallstones?
    I have gallstones and will have to wait months for an operation . . .has anyone any good remedies for relieving the pain (apart from paying to have a private operation!)?
    Also . . .has anyone passed a gallstone and is it possible to help this operation.
    Also also . . .are there any alternative treatments which are successful for removing gallstones and has anyone any experience of these???

    Grateful thanks

    • ANSWER:
      OUCH!! my brother passed a gallstone once, he said it was like a male equivalence of giving birth...ask your doctor for some pain killers for sure...good luck and remember, "pain is just an illusion..."

40. QUESTION:
    are gallstones serious?
    My mum needs an ultrasound scan to see if she has gallstones and I am just really worried as it is not her only health problem - she also has breast cancer. Are gallstones serious? Is it a major operation to remove them?
    yeah she had a mastectomy (sorry about the spelling) 2 years ago for her cancer.

    • ANSWER:
      gall stones can be very painful for your mum, so its important she gets them diagnosed and sorted asap.

      if your Mum has them they will probably do a small keyhole operation to remove her gall bladder

      this is called Cholecystecstomy and usually involves an overnight stay, and she can be up and about again very quickly.

      Good Luck and Stay strong for your Mum

41. QUESTION:
    Can you recover from being in intensive care?
    My dad had an operation to remove a gallstone and he got really ill from it and he is now in intensive care.
    I don't know what to do.

    • ANSWER:
      yes dear, he can recover...
      they don't have intensive care for people not to recover...

42. QUESTION:
    Help : GALLSTONE OPERATION?
    Tomorrow is my gallstone operation, it's tiny
    I haven't exercised n worked out in sooo long and I miss it
    it's an in and out operation.. I don't even have to stay overnight lol

    So how long do you think I'll have to wait till I can start working out n exercising?

    • ANSWER:
      I agree that you should ask your doctor this, but I can tell you with laparoscopic surgery to remove a gallbladder there is a 3-day down period before you are able to exercise. I'm not sure if you are actually having your entire gallbladder removed or not, but I had a similar operation 10 years ago and was told after 3 days I would be healthy enough for exercise.

43. QUESTION:
    after my husbands long awaited gallstone operation,?
    he still feels tired and run down 4 months after, any reason why?

    • ANSWER:
      Ouch...........

      I had a kidney stone last year... It hurt like hell ... But I felt run down for months after.

      Your husbands body will take time to get over this, it is one hell of a trauma...

      I do hope he starts to feel better very soon.
      Good luck..

44. QUESTION:
    have gallstones. Dr says have to wait 5 months for op. is it not dangerous to wait?
    I HAVE HAD PAINS FOR BOUT 3 YEARS IN UPPER RIGHT HAND SIDE OF ADOMEN. AND DR SAID IT WAS STOMACH TROUBLE. BUT RECENTLY BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH GALLSTONES. THE PAIN JUST DOESNT GO AWAY ANYMORE AND THE WAITING LIST IS 5 MONTHS. HAVE ONE BIG GALLSTONE. IS IT NOT DANGEROUS TO WAIT FOR OPERATION?

    • ANSWER:
      And he wishes you to wait because of your insurance?

      Yes and no as far as "is it dangerous"--- and here's why:
      Gall stones are irritating, and as well, can get caught in the common duct. It happens enough times that if the stone becomes erosive, it could erode thru the gall bladder, and then you get peritonitis... not a fun thing to get, and not a fun thing to treat.
      Cholecystectomy via laproscopy is simple now, with the understanding that if they get in there and can't easily remove your gall bladder, they have to go in traditionally.

      Mine was a piece of cake... walked out the next day. And apparently that big stone I had was just getting toooooo big. I asked them to save them... had one big one about the size of a peanut, and 13 little ones.

45. QUESTION:
    How can you releive the pain of Gall Stones?
    My father has just found out that he has gallstones. He was waiting to hear back from his doctor/hospital for when he can have an operation to sort the problem. In the mean time is there anything he can take to releive the pain when it occurs? He anticipates a wait of at least a few months before he can have the operation so obviously would like to suffer as little as possible until then

    • ANSWER:
      Stay away from spicy foods and tomatoes. They flair it up. In all honesty, I would try to simplify my diet as much as possible. I'd drink tons of water, and only eat very basic, healthy things when I was hungry.

46. QUESTION:
    How does the gallbladder operation procedure go?
    Do I need to get the whole gallbladder removed or just the gallstones? I have three gallstones( two big ones and a tiny one)
    How does the procedure take place?
    How long will I be in the hospital for?
    How long will it take for me to be able to go to school as normal and do all sorts of activities?

    • ANSWER:

47. QUESTION:
    Gallstones/Gallbladder/Pancreatitis experts...I need advice?
    I'm hoping someone here will have some experience with what I am going through right now.
    About 3 weeks ago, I was hospitalized due to a severe gallbladder attack. The gallstone lodged itself in the pancreatic duct and I developed pancreatitis.
    They wanted to keep me in the hospital until the pancreatitis died down a bit and perform emergency removal of the gallbladder.
    But, the gallstone dislodged itself and after a few days of being tube fed my bloodwork started looking better. They let me go home as long as I promised to come back for gallbladder removal.
    I've always been a healthy person and I never had any type of abdominal problems until this episode. But, since I have come home, I can only describe it as hell.
    I have had 3 more gallbladder attacks (averaging 1 a week). It takes me around 2-3 days to recover from them. I feel like somebody beat me on the right side in the ribs with a metal baseball bat.
    And it doesn't matter what I eat, I have random attacks. I just had another attack this morning and it was after I ate some homemade oatmeal (no fat, just plain oatmeal).
    Also I get these painful twinges in my gallbladder like something is sticking me from the inside. I won't even tell you about my pancreas. It hates me!
    Also, I have been having heartburn, burping uncontrollably, feeling nauseated, and I have NO appetite at all. I've never felt this lousy ever.
    My operation is booked for Tuesday (5 days from now). I'm so scared because I don't want to have another attack in the meantime. I don't know if I can take another one.
    How in the world did I go from being completely normal with NO problems to feeling like a beaten dog every single day? How can I have so many gallbladder attacks in succession without eating any trigger foods?
    I'm nervous that there might be something more sinister going on. I guess that is why I'd like to hear how other people felt when they were experiencing gallstones and/or pancreatitis.
    Any advice would be welcomed!
    Thanks!

    • ANSWER:
      Pancreatitis is very PAINFUL! Possibly one of the most painful illness there is. I have been told the only more painful process is bone being devoured by cancer. Gallbladder attacks can also be painful. It is very difficult when a person has pancreas issues to eat something that doesn't offend. What worked one day may not work another. I guess the only thing I can say or offer is that you know when your surgery is scheduled. Try to take it easy, as best you can. You might discuss with your physician if you could stay on a clear liquid diet until surgery, most clear liquid diets have no nutritional value, but prevent dehydration. I hope your surgery goes well, and that you have no lasting issues with your pancreas, but keep in mind that once you have had pancreatitis, it doesn't take much to set that organ off. I had chronic pancreatitis for 10 years, and I would not wish that life on anyone.

48. QUESTION:
    Gallstones. My daughter (44 y/o) was admitted to the hospital yesterday w/severe mid-section pain.?
    Her skin and eyes were jaundiced. A sonogram showed a very large gallstone and that her liver and pancreas are inflammed because the stone is moving, blocking her ducts. The gastro=doc came to see her this morning and he said that because of the diet she maintains due to her having Crone's disease and she has a ileostomy bag, they are not going to operate and are sending her home tomorrow. She is scheduled to have a hip replacement operation April 13th. What are the odds that she'll have another gallbladder attach between now and 4/13? Who out there was send home with gallstones and how long did you go, or have you gone, without having another attack and how was your diet affected? Foods to avoid? Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      Every patient experiences different problem. Sorry to read that your beautiful daughter has both Crohn's Disease and gallstones. Both can be very painful. A restricted low-fat diet is the best she can do for now. Avoid added butter, cheese, greasy hamburgers, or other animal fats as much as possible.

      Just for peace of mind, gall bladder removal is the most common surgery performed in the US today. It is safe and effective where recommended.

      In my case, it took 5 ER visits over several months before doctors finally recommended an ultrasound to find my gallstones. The doctors thought I had acid reflux and constipation. My attacks varied from mild to severe, with the severe ones coming about once a month.

      Good luck to your daughter.

49. QUESTION:
    Question about gallstones?
    Since having my baby three months ago i have had 7 serious attacks of what feels like i am having a heart attack. The pain spreads across my back and i cannot move with it. I have been to see my GP who tells me i am imagining it as it cant be gallstones as im too young (im 24). He tells me it is heartburn! I think i know what heartburn is after having 9 monht sof it when i was pregnant.
    Anyway i had to see the doctor on call and he diagnosed gallstones.
    I went to the hospital and they have told me it is gallstones too and i am booked in for a scan next week.

    My question/s is has anyone else suffered with this and do they tell you there and then when you have the scan what is wrong with you? Also if i have to have the operation to remove my gallbladder how long will i have to wait because i can not wait any longer with this pain. I cant even look after my children when having the attacks.

    Lastly i am thinking about complaining about my doctor but who do i complain to?
    Thanks

    • ANSWER:
      I had my gall bladder removed when I was 17.
      They claimed nothing was wrong until I had a nurse practitioner with the balls to look closer.

      When they scan, they'll show you the monitor most likely and tell you "This is a big gall stone. Do you see that?"
      They should also scan your entire torso to make sure that's the primary problem.

      After the surgery, you'll be told not to lift anything over ten pounds. This includes your kids!
      It won't take long before you're up and running around. After the anesthesia wore off, I was running around the house. The problem was that I couldn't laugh, breathe hard, or bump my stitches without feeling a tough pain.
      After about three days, most of the pain will be gone, but you still can't pick anything up.
      When the stitches have nearly disappeared is a safer time to start picking things up.

      Edit:
      To complain about your doctor, if it's a private practice, they should have a number hanging on the wall somewhere that you can call to complain about.
      If it's a large practice, or a hospital, ask who the primary physician is and relay your concerns.

50. QUESTION:
    gallstones?
    Hi ive just been to the hpital to have ultrasound and they told me i have gallstones lots of little ones..not sure if thats good or bad and they also found that i have no left kindey...
    Just wondering what to expect now the pain i experience in horrendous i vomit and get cold sweats all over my body but especially my face!
    Nothing i do takes away the pain its bloody awfull far more painful than childbirth i can assure you and im just getting worried that as my symptoms are quite severe what does that mean is going on inside me!
    Also i have an 8 week old baby and i dont want to have an operation and be cooped up in hpital for weeks when my baby needs me any advice greatly received x

    • ANSWER:
      All your symptoms could be explained by your gallstones. If the sweats are due to fever, rather than pain, that is quite important, as it may mean you are getting episodes of ascending cholangitis, ( infection in the gallbladder) , as a consequence of your stones. This is quite serious and may lead to an attack of pancreatitis, which of even more concern. This means that in general it is not a good idea to leave stones that are causing attacks of cholecystitis.

      Laparoscopic cholecystectomy, taking out the gall bladder though a keyhole sized cut, is now the commonest procedure and only requires a hospital stay of about 3 days if it goes smoothly.

      http://www.clevelandsurgicalassociates.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/lap1.136100715_std.jpg

      In the mean time I am sure you have been advised to go on to an ultra low fat diet.