Gut doctors explain why life without a gallbladder can lead to urgent bathroom trips

Gallbladder removal, a common abdominal surgery, can lead to unexpected gastrointestinal changes in patients, including frequent loose stools and an urgent need to use the bathroom after meals. Dr. Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist, explains that the gallbladder's normal role is to store and release bile in response to food. With the gallbladder gone, bile continuously drips into the intestines, making it a potent stimulant for bowel movements.

Dr. Salhab suggests several ways to manage these symptoms through diet and medical support. Reducing fat intake, supporting gut bacteria with prebiotics and probiotics, and considering certain supplements or medications under medical guidance can help. He also recommends binding bile in the gut with medication to reduce irritation to the colon lining.

Dr. Adithya V. Naragund, a senior consultant in GI and HPB Surgery, explains that post-cholecystectomy diarrhoea is not very common but well-recognized. Bile acids reaching the colon stimulate water secretion and increase intestinal movement, leading to diarrhoea. Dietary changes, such as reducing high-fat and fried foods, eating smaller and more frequent meals, and increasing soluble fibre, can help manage these symptoms.

In severe cases, persistent diarrhoea lasting more than six to eight weeks, accompanied by warning signs like weight loss, dehydration, blood in the stool, fever, or severe abdominal pain, may indicate a more serious condition. Patients should consult their healthcare provider if they experience these symptoms.