Gallstones. I think I have them. X-(

[i-need-a-martini]

Will go see the GP tomorrow but am just recovering form my 3rd attack in 2 weeks.

But everything I read says that my GB has to be removed. I don't want it removed.

Anyone else managing to survive with it intact?

Any advice?

[id-to-post-anything]

attacks are bad etc but just think about where you could get an attack. I know someone who was overseas recently and ended up in  a forgein hospital with an attack. it can get you any time

If the Dr recommends to get it out ---get it out.

[debra9275]

Good luck Martini :-x

[purple.cow]

Any advice?

Two options as far as I see things ....

Number 1 = have the GB out and be done with it and free off pain for good.

Number 2 = leave it where it is and put up with it and maybe drop dead sometime in the near future.

Either way at least I won't be reading any more about your bloody gall bladder on here :^O

Just not the sort of discussion that moves my world. Mind you, most of the threads on here don't either 😉

[i-need-a-martini]

Saw the GP this morning and he prodded around where it would hurt the most and I screamed loud enough for him to say he's confident it is gall stones. Ultrasound next week to confirm it.

He reckons it will end up having to come up. 

But I don't understand how after I have it out I still can't eat what I want anyway, so  why not just avoid those foods now and NOT have the operation?

Or am I missing something important about the issue?

[0z_girl]

many people have gallstones and are not even aware they have them, they often get picked up on routine ultrasounds and scans for other problems and they don't necessarily cause any problems, its only a problem when you start to get symptoms.

better to have it out, due to the more serious risks, (as others have said), of cholecystitis, pancreatitis, or a stone becoming lodged and blocking the bile duct

of course its your right to refuse and see how you go, but be prepared for attacks further down the track, and it would more then likely have to come out sometime then.

[debra9275]

Martini. my mum was extremely ill before she had hers out, and she's been in wonderful health ever since.

[cherry*135]

I still can't eat what I want anyway?

What wont you be able to eat? You mentioned you dont eat now hardly any of the foods mentioned that can trigger a gall bladder attack anyway.

A good point id-to-post made  - an attack can happen anywhere, anytime,

[azureline**]

Martini, the recovery period, when your bile is finding it's way directly into your stomach, is the only time you will not be able to eat what you want... maybe. There are no rules.....

[cat_mioux]

I had mine out many decades ago.

I find I can't stomach anything bought from a Fish & Chip shop. Too greasy but all I get is a bit of a stomach ache. I can have supermarket chips though, heated in the oven, with no problems.