The gallbladder is a small organ that’s responsible for releasing bile into the small intestine, especially when needed for breaking down fats. While gallbladder disease is often associated with older adults, younger patients are increasingly showing up with gallstones and other gallbladder problems. Recent research finds a trend of increasing gallbladder disease among younger age groups, including a notable rise among patients ages 15 to 24 that was associated with increasing obesity rates.

While age remains an important risk factor for gallbladder disease, factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, and metabolic health can influence gallstone formation much earlier in life. Continue reading to learn about the signs and symptoms of gallbladder disease in younger people and where to find the best gallbladder treatment in Los Angeles.

Can You Have Gallbladder Disease Even If You Are Young and Healthy?

Being young or physically active does not rule out gallbladder disease. This is because gallstones develop when substances in bile, often cholesterol, become concentrated enough to form hardened deposits. Some people have a genetic tendency to develop them, while others can have metabolic or hormonal factors that increase the risk of gallbladder disease. Several factors that can increase your risk of developing gallstones include:

  • Obesity and insulin resistance: These can alter bile composition and gallbladder function.
  • Rapid weight loss: Losing weight quickly can increase cholesterol in bile and prevent the gallbladder from emptying normally.
  • Weight cycling: Repeatedly losing and regaining significant amounts of weight may increase risk.
  • Pregnancy and estrogen exposure: Pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy and some forms of hormonal contraception can increase gallstone risk.
  • Family history: Gallstones can run in families.
  • Diabetes and metabolic syndrome: Insulin resistance, diabetes and abnormal lipid levels are associated with increased gallstone risk.

What Does a Gallbladder Attack Actually Feel Like?

Many typical gallbladder attacks cause steady pain in the upper-right or upper-middle abdomen, often after eating. The pain, which is caused by gallbladder contractions, may also radiate to the back or right shoulder blade and can last for several hours. Nausea or vomiting are also common. These symptoms can be confusing because they overlap with several other conditions involving the gastrointestinal tract.

Gallbladder Pain Other Possible Causes
Usually upper-right or upper-middle abdominal pain Gastritis or an ulcer may cause upper abdominal discomfort
Often occurs after a meal, particularly a fatty meal Acid reflux may cause burning behind the breastbone
Can radiate toward the back or right shoulder Pancreatitis can cause severe upper abdominal pain radiating to the back
Often lasts longer than ordinary indigestion Muscle or rib pain may worsen with movement or pressure
May occur with nausea or vomiting Foodborne illness commonly causes diarrhea and cramping

When Does Gallbladder Disease Require Surgery?

Surgery to remove the gallbladder is usually a good treatment option when gallstones are causing bothersome symptoms or when gallbladder disease has led to a complication. Laparoscopic gallbladder removal is a standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones, acute cholecystitis, certain cases of biliary dyskinesia, and complications involving the bile duct or pancreas. Asymptomatic gallstones usually do not require surgery.

Patients who do need gallbladder surgery in Los Angeles can expect laparoscopic surgery that involves several small incisions rather than one large abdominal incision. For most patients, this surgery can be performed as an outpatient procedure, and many people return to normal activities within about one to two weeks, although recovery varies by the complexity of the operation and the individual's health.

Where to Find the Best Gallbladder Doctor in Los Angeles

Gallbladder symptoms can come on suddenly and quickly become severe enough to interfere with your life, but these symptoms can also point to other GI conditions. Seeing a gallbladder disease expert is the best way to ensure you get the right diagnosis and care. Dr. Danny Shouhed is a board-certified, nationally recognized minimally invasive surgeon with advanced expertise in robotic gastrointestinal and complex general surgery. He completed his surgical residency at Cedars-Sinai and fellowship training at Mount Sinai Hospital, and he has published more than 40 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters.

Our goal is to determine when gallbladder surgery is the right answer and when another explanation deserves attention first. For patients who need surgery, Dr. Shouhed's extensive experience in minimally invasive and robotic surgery provides a strong foundation for safe, carefully planned care.

Ready to get personalized care from the best gallbladder doctor in Los Angeles?