Gallbladder cancer is a rare form of cancer that develops in the gallbladder, a small organ located just beneath the liver. When carcinogenic or malignant cells start to proliferate abnormally and uncontrollably in the gallbladder, gallbladder cancer develops. The early stages of gallbladder cancer often do not cause any symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose. However, as the cancer progresses, it can cause a variety of symptoms that can be indicative of the disease.

It is commonly known that those who have already received treatment fear developing gallbladder cancer. Even after completing cancer therapy and emerging as a survivor, a cancer recurrence is possible. In this blog, we will discuss the 10 advanced-stage symptoms of gallbladder cancer that you should be aware of-

1. Abdominal pain: As the cancer grows, it can cause pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. This pain can be dull or sharp and may radiate to the back or shoulder.

2. Jaundice: The cancer can block the bile ducts, causing jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes.

3. Nausea and vomiting: The cancer can also cause nausea and vomiting, often as a result of the blockage of the bile ducts.

4. Loss of appetite: As the cancer progresses, it can cause a loss of appetite and weight loss.

5. Fatigue: Cancer can cause fatigue, a feeling of exhaustion and weakness that is not relieved by rest.

6. Itching: Cancer-related jaundice can cause itching all over the body.

7. Abdominal swelling: As the cancer grows, it can cause abdominal swelling due to the build-up of fluid in the abdomen.

8. Blood clots: Gallbladder cancer can cause blood clots, which can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs.

9. Bowel obstruction: The cancer can also cause a bowel obstruction, which can cause constipation, abdominal pain and vomiting.

10. Metastasis: Advanced-stage gallbladder cancer can also spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver, lungs, bones and brain. This can cause symptoms such as bone pain, headaches and difficulty breathing.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it’s essential to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of them. A diagnosis of gallbladder cancer is made through a combination of tests, including an ultrasound, CT scan and biopsy.

Gallbladder cancer risk factors

The exact causes of gallbladder cancer are not well understood, but certain risk factors have been identified. These include-

Age: The risk of gallbladder cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 60.

Gender: The prevalence of gallbladder cancer is higher in women than in males.

Race: Gallbladder cancer is more common in people of Native American and Hispanic descent.

Gallstones: Having a history of gallstones increases the risk of gallbladder cancer.

Obesity: Being overweight or obese can raise the risk of gallbladder cancer.

Chronic inflammation of gallbladder: Chronic inflammation of the gallbladder (cholecystitis) can increase gallbladder cancer risk.

Family history: Having a family history of gallbladder cancer increases the risk of developing the disease.

It is also to note that exposure to certain chemicals, such as petrochemical, pesticides and a specific type of hair dyes, can also increase the risk of gallbladder cancer.

Treatment of Gallbladder cancer

Gallbladder cancer treatment typically involves surgery to remove the gallbladder and surrounding tissue. In some cases, lymph nodes in the area may also be removed. In the advanced stages of the disease, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be used in addition to surgery. The treatment plan will be determined by the stage and progression of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health.

Early diagnosis is key to the successful treatment of gallbladder cancer. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of the disease and to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of them. If you have a family history of gallbladder cancer or other risk factors for the disease, such as gallstones or chronic inflammation of the gallbladder, it’s essential to talk to your doctor about regular screenings.

Prevention of Gallbladder cancer

There are a few ways to reduce the risk factors of gallbladder cancer:

Maintaining a healthy diet and weight: Obesity is a risk factor for gallbladder cancer, so maintaining a healthy diet and diet can help reduce the risk.

Avoiding gallstones: Gallstones can cause inflammation in the gallbladder, which can increase the risk of cancer. Avoiding foods that are high in fat or cholesterol can help prevent gallstones.

Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption: Both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have been linked to an increased risk of gallbladder cancer.

Treating gallbladder disease: If you have gallbladder disease or gallstones, it’s essential to have them treated to reduce cancer risk.

Regular checkups: Regular checkups with your doctor can help detect any early signs of gallbladder cancer and increase the chances of successful treatment if the cancer is found.

It’s also important to note that certain inherited conditions, such as Lynch Syndrome, increase the risk of gallbladder cancer.

In conclusion, Gallbladder cancer is a rare but serious disease that can cause a variety of symptoms as it progresses. The most common symptoms of advanced-stage gallbladder cancer are abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, itching, abdominal swelling, blood clots, bowel obstruction, and metastasis. It’s essential to be aware of these symptoms and to see a doctor if you are experiencing any of them. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the prognosis of gallbladder cancer. So if you experience any of the symptoms, you should consult with the best oncologist in Delhi, India.