Understanding the location and function of the gallbladder can help us understand what symptoms we might expect if gallbladder cancer develops. Situated above the right side of the stomach, the gallbladder sits within a depression in the liver. And here, next to the liver, the gallbladder stores the bile to be delivered to the intestines via the bile ducts during digestion.
A tumor in the gallbladder may put pressure on nearby organs, like the stomach, or interfere with the flow of the bile during digestion. If there is a blockage, the bilirubin (a brownish-yellow substance found in bile) builds up and may cause jaundice, or the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Jaundice is not itself a disease, but a symptom of a liver-related condition.
A tumor on the gallbladder may press on the stomach, causing pain or a bloated feeling, particularly on the upper right side, closest to the gallbladder. In most cases, symptoms are not apparent until the cancer has progressed to advanced stages.
If gallbladder cancer symptoms are present, they will vary depending on the size and location of the tumor in the gallbladder, and whether or not the cancer has spread to other organs. Because the gallbladder is surrounded by other organs, it is difficult to detect gallbladder cancer in its early stages. Sometimes gallbladder cancer is discovered during another medical procedure, like surgery for an unrelated condition.
There following are some potential symptoms of gallbladder cancer:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
- Pruritus (itchy skin sometimes associated with jaundice)
- Fever
- Bloating or abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Decreased appetite / weight loss
NOTE: These symptoms may be attributed to a number of conditions other than cancer, such as an infection or other illness. It is important to consult with a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis.
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