What is Biliary Colic?

• A sharp, intense pain in the upper right or middle abdomen
• Caused by blockage of the bile ducts, often due to gallstones
• Also known as a gallbladder attack
• Usually occurs suddenly and may last from minutes to several hours

What causes Biliary Colic?

• Most commonly caused by gallstones temporarily blocking the cystic duct
• Can also be triggered by a fatty meal
• Gallbladder contracts to release bile, but the stone blocks the flow

Who is at risk?

• People with gallstones
• Women (especially over age 40)
• Individuals who are overweight or obese
• Those with a high-fat, low-fiber diet
• People with a family history of gallbladder disease
• Pregnant women or those on hormone therapy
• People who lose weight quickly

What are the symptoms?

• Sudden, severe pain in the upper right abdomen or center of the abdomen
• Pain may radiate to the right shoulder or back
• Nausea or vomiting
• Bloating or fullness
• Pain often starts after eating, especially fatty foods
• Episodes are usually brief (15 minutes to a few hours) and resolve on their own
• No fever or jaundice (if present, may suggest more serious complication)

How is Biliary Colic diagnosed?

• Medical history and physical exam
• Ultrasound — the most common imaging test to detect gallstones
• Blood tests — usually normal if it’s only biliary colic
• CT scan or MRI — sometimes used if ultrasound is unclear

What is the treatment?

Immediate Relief:
• Pain management with medications (NSAIDs or stronger pain relievers)
• Anti-nausea drugs if needed

Long-Term Solutions:
• Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy) — most effective treatment
• If surgery is not possible, dietary changes may reduce attacks
• Avoiding fatty, greasy foods

What are the complications?

• If untreated, biliary colic can lead to:
• Acute cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
• Blocked bile ducts
• Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
• Gallbladder rupture (rare)

How can it be prevented?

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid rapid weight loss
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fiber and low in saturated fats
• Exercise regularly
• Manage underlying conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol

When should you see a doctor?

• If abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or recurring
• If you experience nausea and vomiting with the pain
• If symptoms last longer than a few hours
• If you develop fever, chills, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (seek immediate care)