Why It Occurs and What Treatments Can Help
Diarrhea aftergallbladderremoval is a common experience.
This article looks at the causes of chronic diarrhea after gallbladder removal surgery.
Why Gallbladder Removal Causes Diarrhea
There are several reasons why people have chronic diarrhea after gallbladder removal.
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The interruption of the loop also “takes the brakes off” the speed by which digestion normally occurs.
Possible Complications
For most people, diarrhea is an annoyance rather than a serious medical problem.
For those who undergo cholecystectomy, the symptom can become persistent and lead to chronicdehydration.
Chronic dehydration is when your body uses more fluids than you take in on an ongoing basis.
Theprobiotic bacteriain yogurt may help to improve symptoms of diarrhea.Supplementing your diet with high-fiber foods may also bring relief.
This can help you avoid overloading yourgastrointestinal tractwith foods that it may not be able to properly digest.
Diarrhea contains both bile and stomach acid, both of which are very irritating to the skin.
It is available in an artificially sweetened “light” version for people with diabetes.
The medication comes in a packet and is taken as a drink after being added to water.
Milder cases of diarrhea may benefit from over-the-counter anti-diarrheal medications likeImodium (loperamide)orPepto-Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate).
However, for most people who develop bile acid diarrhea, the condition usually resolves within a year.
Over time, diarrhea may start to settle, but it can take a long time.
A Word From Verywell
Diarrhea after gallbladder surgery is both common and troublesome.
Frequently Asked Questions
After gallbladder removal, diarrhea can last a few weeks or longer.
A healthcare provider should be contacted immediately.
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