I had my gall bladder out a little over two years ago. Since then, things are really not the same. Not to be gross, but it seems like my urgency and frequency has increased, and things are much looser than before. I have been to two GI doctors, and they haven't really reached any conclusions. My lower scope showed some minor inflammation, but nothing else. Right now I just treat with digestive enzymes, and Imodium if I am going to be on the road. I just wondered if anyone else has experienced this, and if you found anything that helps.
Diana,
You can always try to find a third doc to help you out...but gall bladder removal can have the effects you are talking about. It has a big impact along with the pancreas. One doc you might try is Dr. Michael Nunez at Baylor. Good luck!
I am the same way, and its been 9 yrs since I had surgery. Greasy foods make it worse. I just try to be careful what I eat when I am out or on vacation and such. It's very normal.
Definately look at your diet -- specifically the fat content of your diet. The gall bladders sole purpose is to help you digest fatty foods. When you get too much, it will cause problems. Some people have problems with more fatty cuts of meat in addition to fried foods, buttery sauces, etc. Have you been tested for celiac or gluten intollerance? This can also cause similar symptoms. You might try elimating things from your diet (very methodically) and then reintroducing them to see what happens.
The only residual problems I've had have been with high fat foods. Spicy foods don't bother me one bit. Fast food makes me so sick though if I'm not careful.
The main thing that I would do if I were you is to examine the types of foods that you eating. Spicy, greasy or fried foods make me VERY sick urgently. Creamy or cheesy foods have the same effect. If you cut these things out, I imagine that you will feel better, but quite honestly I don't think that there is much that you can do once your gall bladder is out. My was taken out 4 years ago - emergency surgery - and I have no regrets. I just watch what I eat or I accept the consequences when I don't! Good luck!
I had my gallbladder removed at 22 (now 32) and had the same problems for years but then it went the other way and I have suffered from constipation since then...not sure which is worse. I was diagnosed with IBS. I recommend digestive enzymes..not sure which one you are using but I'd go to a good health food store and get some high quality ones. I also HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend taking probiotics. Get ones at a health food store that need to be kept in the fridge...they are better than the ones off the counter and get one that has a million plus count. And I know it seems strange but I would take a good fiber supplement b/c fiber bulks your intestines which can help with your problem. Not to sound like a broken record but I do stress going to a good health food store and talking to someone in there...a Whole Foods, Sprouts, or a family owned store. Possibly even visit with a dietian some insurances pay for that. Also helpful was the BRAT diet...bananas, rice, applesauce and toast when it gets really bad. All these foods help bind and are really bland. I hope this helps...good luck! : )
I had mine out a year ago and I have the same problem. I just watch what I eat (or try to, anyway, hahaha). Lunch during the day at work seems to be worse than any other time..maybe the stress of working does it and if I add something spicy or heavy it is a little worse. I don't watch what I eat like I should so I just figured this was a consequence to my actions. At least, I am not having pain anymore..
Good luck..
