What is Gallbladder Sludge and How Can it Be Treated?

Gallbladder sludge or Biliary sludge is a mixture of solids and liquids which forms inside the gallbladder. The gallbladder stores bile which has many components including calcium and salts. In some cases, the gallbladder does not empty which leads to a residue of certain particles. Overtime, this residue turns into gallbladder sludge.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Gallbladder Sludge?

In most cases, the existence of biliary sludge shows no signs or symptoms. This makes it very hard to detect it without using proper diagnostic tools. However, some people show the following symptoms:

Abdominal Pain
Vomiting
Nausea
Clays stool
Pain in the right shoulder
Chest pain

Who is Likely to Develop Gallbladder Sludge?

Pregnant women are more likely to develop gallbladder sludge, Credits: Wikimedia Commons

It is well established that gallbladder sludge forms when bile residue remains in the gallbladder but it has been observed that some individuals are more likely to develop it than others. The population groups that are more likely to develop gallbladder sludge are:

Overweight Individuals
Who have gone through rapid weight loss
Critically ill patients
Diabetic patients
Had an organ transplant
Pregnant women

What are the Possible Complications of a Gallbladder Sludge?

In a majority of the cases, gallbladder sludge resolves on its own and most individuals don’t even realize that they suffered from this condition. However, in severe cases gallbladder stones can lead to the following serious complications:

Gallstones: Gallstones are solid deposits that form inside the gallbladder. These solid formations can hinder the fluid flow inside the sludge in gallbladder treatment which can result in severe complications. They are often accompanied by severe abdominal pain and require immediate medical intervention.

Cholecystitis: Cholecystitis is a condition in which the gallbladder is inflamed. Gallbladder sludge increases the chances of developing cholecystitis.

What is the Diagnostic Approach Used?

An ultrasound is used for diagnosing gallbladder sludge, Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The diagnostic approach has two aspects. It’s important for detecting the presence of the sludge, and its cause.

Ultrasound: An ultrasound is used to detect abnormalities present in the body. In case a patient suffers from abdominal pain, a doctor is likely to order an ultrasound.

Ultrasound can detect many other diseases and that is why it is done often.

Identifying the cause: The goal of these tests is to determine why the slide was formed. The tests which are commonly done are blood tests and liver function tests.

What is the Treatment for Gallbladder Sludge?

In severe cases, gallbladder sludge can cause gallstones which might require surgery, Credits: Pixabay

In most cases, treatment is not necessary for gallbladder sludge and the condition resolves on its own. However, in severe cases, where it causes pain and discomfort then the doctor may need to remove the gallbladder surgically.

A non-invasive surgical option is called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). This procedure can be used to remove gallbladder sludge and gallstones.

Can Lifestyle Changes Help with Gallbladder Sludge?

Avoid drinking alcohol as consumption of alcohol can lead to gallbladder sludge, Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The answer is yes. There are certain lifestyle changes which can prevent as well as help in treating gallbladder sludge. These are:

Abstaining from Alcohol Intake: Alcohol has been linked with various digestive problems and it plays a role in the formation of gastric sludge.
Low Fat Diet: A diet which is rich in fat can have adverse effects on the body. Eating a balanced diet which contains optimum amounts of all nutrients is important to maintain health.
Rapid Weight Changes: Rapid changes in weight harm the body. Both increase and decrease in weight are harmful if they are done unnecessarily fast. Such weight changes cause gallbladder sludge.

Takeaway

Gallbladder sludge is not a serious condition but it can lead to other serious conditions. If you feel any signs of recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort then you should consult a doctor. In case you are diagnosed with gallbladder sludge in gallbladder treatment then you should focus on the lifestyle changes and monitor your condition with regular visits to the doctor.