Why are diabetics at higher risk for gallbladder disease?
Gallbladder health is often affected by diabetes and insulin resistance, says Dr Tribhuvan Gulati, Diabetes Specialist, Apollo Spectra Delhi (India). One of the major risk factors for gallbladder disease is obesity, which is more common in people with type 2 diabetes. Obesity increases the production of cholesterol in the bile, which can accumulate in the gallbladder and eventually lead to gallstones. Gallstones may be asymptomatic, but can also cause pain in the right upper quadrant and chills, and unexplained high blood sugar.
Additionally, triglycerides, a type of fat that can promote the development of gallstones, are higher in people with diabetes. Controlling your diabetes is the best way to prevent gallbladder problems.
Gallbladder pain can cause the following symptoms:
- Right upper abdominal pain appears suddenly and lasts for several hours.
- Pain or discomfort in the right shoulder below the shoulder blade.
- Pain in the middle right abdomen and worse after eating.
- Unexplained vomiting or nausea.
Conclude
Most people can prevent gallbladder problems by maintaining a balanced diet, getting enough exercise, and managing their overall health, regardless of whether they have diabetes, says Dr. Tribhuvan Gulati.
