Biliary Dykensia/Gall Bladder Removal

Hello, I recently had a HIDA scan done to check the pain in my right abdomen, side and back.  The results came back and they said I have Biliary Dykensia.  I see a surgeon in a couple of weeks to talk about getting my Gall Bladder removed.  I had a couple questions in the meantime:

1)  I've been pretty fatigued the past several week, especially in the mornings when getting up.  Is fatigue and lack of energy normal symptoms with Biliary Dykensia?

2)  I assume Gall Bladder removal is the best option to get rid of the pain and discomfort.  Are the chances pretty good that my pain/discomfort will go away if I get my Gall Bladder removed?  If they don't go away, what are my other options?

3)  Are there any medicene's/vitamins that can help relieve the pain unil my surgery?

4)  Are the risks pretty low for Gall Bladder removal?  How long does it typically take to get back to normal with Gall Bladder removal?

5)  Is physical activity (running, basketball, etc) ok to do with Biliary Dykensia?  Or should I wait until after my Gall Bladder is removed?

Thanks!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

To answer your questions:

1) There are many reasons that can lead to fatigue.  It is possible that the biliary dyskinesia may be responsible, but I would consider other causes as well.

2) Small studies suggest that the symptoms can improve after removing the gallbladder, but this is not definitive.  If the symptoms continue, you can consider an MRCP to evaluate the biliary tree for any blockages, or a Sphincter of Oddi (SO) manometry to evaluate for SO dysfunction.

3) If allowed by your physicians, various pain medications can be considered to help with the pain prior to surgery.

4) Gallbladder surgery is fairly routine.  Risks include infection, bleeding, or damaging the biliary duct, among others.  Recovery typically lasts 2-3 weeks.

5) I would discuss this question with your personal physician, as I cannot give specific medical advice over the Internet without evaluation.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.

KevinMD.com
Twitter.com/kevinmd

[afaye]

Talk to your Dr, yes, but also see a Gastro Dr.  The HIDA scan is what diagnosed my gallbladder problem.  I had gone to 2 other Gastro Dr.'s and had exams from both ends and because I didn't have any gallstones, they told me it wasn't my gallbladder even though it was only working 21%.  I was sick for 4 months with pain and had to go to bed to relieve it before the last Dr. found it.
Also, have they given you a test for lactose intolerance?  I was given that test also, I don't know if it will help but you can ask.
Whatever, don't give up.  Get your lab and Dr. records and keep up with them.  You can learn a lot and they have to let you have a copy.
Good Luck