Gallbladder symptoms and polyps

I have been having some pain and other symptoms from my gallbladder for quite some time. I finally saw my doctor and she ordered an ultrasound. Turns out I have several polyps on my gallbladder. I do not know any other information. She has referred me to a surgeon who I am to see shortly. If I am seeing a surgeon does this mean I am definitely going to have surgery on my gallbladder?

I have been having right sided abdominal pain stretching into  my back under my shoulder blade, pain with touch on my abdomen, loss of appetite, indigestion (heartburn) without relief of my medication, yellow stools, loose stools, and sometimes after I eat I get violent chills and shakes. Also I have been getting slight itching sensation on my rib area near where I get the pain- this being the most recent symptom. The ultrasound they did on me put me in pain for days.
Oh and I seem to be having what feels like pain in my left kidney. (I have a history of kidney stones and past stent placement in that kidney) I don't know if this pain is related. My whole abdomen seems irritated the past 24 hours after a real bad episode of all that.

Does it sound like I would be a candidate for having the gallbladder removed?

Daily I take many medications: Norvasc 5mg, lithium 900mg, risperdal 1mg, topamax 75mg, singulair 10mg, Arava 20mg, Humira (every two weeks) 40mg injection, vitamin D 50,000IU/month, Prilosec (up to 2 daily)
As needed I take: Ventolin HFA, Tramadol 50-100mg, klonopin 0.5mg, Midrin

Diagnoses that I have are : GERD, Asthma, Bipolar, Arthritis, Hypertension, migraines

Thanks.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

It would depend on the size of the gallbladder polyp.  Smaller polyps can be observed with a repeat ultrasound.  Those that are larger may necessitate gallbladder removal.  I agree with obtaining a surgical opinion.

The changes in bowel habits may not be related to the gallbladder.  I would consider a colonoscopy to evaluate the lower GI system, as well as sending off the stools for analysis and culture.  Blood tests can be done to exclude celiac disease.  

These options can be discussed with your personal physician.

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.
www.kevinmd.com
www.twitter.com/kevinmd