6. Biliary Colic: An Unrelenting Discomfort
Biliary colic is a term used to describe the intense pain associated with gallstones, and it’s one of the hallmark symptoms of this condition. This pain comes on suddenly and can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. It’s an unrelenting, gripping pain that seems to take over your entire abdomen.
Typically, biliary colic is triggered when a gallstone temporarily blocks the bile duct, preventing bile from flowing into the small intestine as it should. The gallbladder responds by contracting vigorously, trying to push the stone out of the way, resulting in severe pain. The pain is often described as sharp and cramping, and it’s usually located in the upper right part of the abdomen.
In addition to the pain, biliary colic can also lead to a feeling of fullness in the abdomen and, in some cases, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms occur as the body reacts to the blocked bile duct and increased pressure in the gallbladder. Even after the pain subsides, you might be left feeling uncomfortable and drained.
It’s worth noting that while biliary colic can be extremely painful, it doesn’t typically lead to other complications. However, if the gallstone doesn’t move and continues to block the bile duct, it can lead to more serious conditions, such as cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) or cholangitis (inflammation of the bile duct). That’s why it’s so important to seek medical attention if you suspect you’re experiencing biliary colic. (6)
