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Gallbladder Disease 101

By Tracee Cornforth, About.com

Updated: June 17, 2003

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Gallbladder Disease 101

Over 20 million Americans have gallblader disease. About one million new cases of gallbladder disease are diagnosed annually. Gallstones cause more than 800,000 hospitalizations every year in the United States. Gallstone attacks frequently occur after eating meals high in fat content. The most common treatment for gallbladder disease is laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

If you have been diagnosed with gallbladder disease or gallstones, or if you are wondering whether you may have them, here's a guide to everything you need to know about gallbladder disease and gallstones:

Gallbladder Disease Overview

What Are Gallstones?
An illustrated discussion that explains how gallstones are formed.

What Causes Gallstones?
A look at different types of gallstones and the factors involved in the formation of gallstones.

Who Is At Risk For Gallblader Disease?
A short list of risk factors for those most at risk of developing gallbladder disease.

Dieting and Gallstones
Surprising information about how dieting affects risk for gallbladder disease.

Finding Out If You Have Gallbladder Disease

Symptoms of Gallbladder Disease
Use this simple list to determine if the symptoms you are experiencing are consistent with gallblader disease.

How Are Gallstones Diagnosed?
A look at diagnostic tests and procedures to determine whether gallstones are present.

Treating Gallbladder Disease

Laparoscopy
The most common treatment for gallbladder disease is laparoscopic surgery. Here's a look at what happens during this type of surgery and what to expect during recovery after laparoscopy.

Treatments For Gallbladder Disease
A list of traditional and alternative treatments for gallbladder disease.

What Is The Treatment For Gallbladder Disease?
A detailed discussion about treatment options for gallbladder disease.

If you suspect you may have gallbladder disease, see your healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and treatment. Undiagnosed gallstones can cause serious problems if they become trapped in the bile duct. The symptoms of gallbladder disease can mimic those of other conditions including heart attack making an accurate diagnosis extremely important.

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