What can I do to get relief from a "Gallbladder Attack" (Biliary Colic)?

Question

Please don't tell me to have my Gallbladder removed....I already know that's what needs to be done. It's a $10,000 operation and I have NO insurance and not enough money or credit. I have been to the doctor though, but the pills he prescribed do not work. I've tried taking antacids, hot baths, and drinking milk. None work. Is there anything I can do to relieve the pain? Or do I have to just suffer through it? Somebody please help me! It hurts so bad that I've thought about just stabbing myself so I could have emergency surgery.

Answer 1

I know how you feel. Luckily, I did have insurance and after two attacks, I went to the doctor and scheduled surgery.

I learned that you need to consume foods low in fat and oils. I'll never forget the day I roasted a chicken and vegetables. The vegetables tasted awesome, but because they cooked in the fat and juices with the chicken, they were highly concentrated with oil and fat. I had a gnarly attack that night and I suffered for about an hour and then pain subsided and went away. STAY AWAY FROM MILK!!! It contains lots of FAT. Please switch to Soy Milk and I recommend Silk. It tastes better than milk and is healthier for you. No french fries, no fatty burgers, no cheese, no Italian dressing on your salad (oil) b/c it will trigger an attack. I know it sucks to not enjoy food, but give your body a break for a while and then gradually try foods you used to like, but in moderation.

Even after my surgery, I've had two more attacks, but after six months of eating right, I've been able to enjoy some oily and fatty foods without having an attack.

I know the feeling when you put something in your mouth you have this fear wondering if this food will trigger an attack. I still have some uncomfortable feelings in my gut, but nothing compares to those attacks. The first attack was late at night and I literally collapsed on the floor and I was drooling on myself because I couldn't breathe... My husband had to drive me and our two kids to the emergency room where I received the pain relief. Your doctor should also be able to prescribe some Vicodin so when you feel the pain come on you can take it to relieve yourself somewhat. However, Vicodin is addictive and if you don't plan on having the surgery, you could become addicted and rely on drugs to relieve your pain. Not cool.

Eat oatmeal in the morning, drink soy milk or orange juice (small amount of orange juice b/c its acidic; but it never bothered me). I also remember eating lots of toast with a little bit of butter (butter could set you off so be careful; again, butter never bothered me). For dinners, I remember eating cereals with whole grains and raisins. Also, I never lost any weight eating this way (bummer) but I was so scared of eating anything it was a complete drag.

Alternatively, you could just have the surgery and work out a plan to pay back the money in monthly installments. I had a baby in April 2005 and my gall bladder removed in May of 2005 and after receiving all the bills and having to pay my portion of those bills, I learned hospitals provide care to the COMMUNITY and being strapped for money, as I was too, they promise to work with you if you have a hardship or if you are simply unable to pay. St. Joseph Hospital delivered my baby girl and when I was in a bind to come up with the $2,000 on just ONE of the bills, they let me pay $100 a month (an amount I requsted). I paid the $100 and eventually paid it off altogether, but their representative sent me a form to see if I could qualify to pay less than the amount billed. Please try this and talk with your doctor/surgeon about where you are and living in this condition makes life intolerable.

Please seek help and good well. Eat healthy and blandly for a while to help alleviate your pain. Good luck to you...

Answer 2

Biliary Colic Attack

Answer 3

From the Medical point of view and remaining anonymous:

Drink (1 cup) - do this for couple of months:
Mornings - Sodium Bicarbonate with Citric Acid (ENO Fruit Salts)
Lunch time - Cranberry Juice
Dinner - Apple Cider Vinegar

I guess you can do it either way...thot i put it as a guide.

Answer 4

I was 21 when I had my gall bladder removed. I had a great deal of pain in the middle of my shoulder blades. I would throw up after eating italian and mexican foods . Could it be a gall stone.?? It the pain continues I encourage you to seek medical attention

Answer 5

1

Answer 6

My *** hurts.