Gallbladder problems are primarily caused by gallstones, which are hard particles formed from substances in bile, mainly excess cholesterol and bilirubin. These gallstones can block the bile ducts, leading to inflammation, infection, or other complications such as cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). Other causes include tumors that block bile flow, infections, scarring or kinking of bile ducts, liver disease, and poorly functioning gallbladder emptying.
Common Causes of Gallbladder Problems
- Gallstones blocking bile ducts or gallbladder neck
- Gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)
- Blockage of bile ducts or pancreatic duct due to stones or sludge
- Tumors obstructing bile flow
- Infections, including viral infections like AIDS
- Serious illness reducing blood flow to the gallbladder
- Poor gallbladder emptying function (biliary dyskinesia)
Risk Factors
- Being female
- Age 40 or older
- Overweight or obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle
- High-fat or high-cholesterol diet
- Low-fiber diet
- Rapid weight loss
- Diabetes
- Certain ethnicities (Native American, Hispanic of Mexican origin)
- Pregnancy
- Family history of gallstones
- Use of estrogen-containing medications
- Liver disease and blood disorders like sickle cell anemia
Potential Complications
- Gallbladder inflammation and infection
- Blockage of bile ducts causing jaundice and pain
- Pancreatitis from blockage of pancreatic duct
- Rarely, increased risk of gallbladder cancer
In summary, gallbladder problems mostly stem from gallstones formed due to imbalances in bile components and factors impairing bile flow or gallbladder function. Other causes can include infections, tumors, and chronic diseases affecting the bile ducts or liver.
