Introduction
Gallbladder pain can be relieved by changing sleeping positions. Many other home remedies can also help relieve the pain. This article will briefly describe the positions a patient must avoid and the various sleeping positions that will help relieve pain.
What causes Gallbladder Pain?
The gallbladder is the smallest organ of the digestive system that stores bile. Bile is a fluid produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It is released from the gallbladder into the small intestines, and it helps in the digestion of fat. However, when a chemical imbalance happens, the bile turns into gallstones, small protein deposits. These gallstones cause an attack in the gallbladder by blocking the bile duct. These attacks result in severe pain in the upper abdominal region. The pain can sometimes last for a few hours.
What Are the Symptoms of a Gallbladder Attack?
Some symptoms of a gallbladder attack include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain after eating, fever, chills, pain that lasts for several hours, brown urine, light-colored stools, and yellowish discoloration of the skin and whites of eyes.
Which Area of the Body Is the Gallbladder Pain Felt?
The gallbladder is located in the right upper abdominal area. Therefore, when pain occurs, it mostly occurs in this area. Along with gallbladder pain, the person will also experience abdominal pain in the upper middle area or chest pain. The pain can also spread to the right shoulder and the back region.
Which Side Should a Patient Lie to Relieve the Gallbladder Pain?
It is better to lie on the left side when gallbladder pain occurs. While lying on the right side, the area can get compressed, leading to more pain. Resting or sleeping on the left side will allow the gallbladder to expand and contract freely, which will help pass the gallstone. It is better to lie on the left side until the bile duck blockage is cleared. This clearing of the bile duct will help ease the pain. While lying on the left side, using a warm compress like a heating pad or hot water bottle can also help relieve the pain and reduce pressure.
Which Sleeping Positions Should Be Avoided for Gallbladder Problems?
Since the liver and gallbladder are situated on the right side of the body, in case of any pain, it is recommended to avoid sleeping on the right side. This is because when a person sleeps on their right side, the gallbladder gets constricted, and the passing of gallbladder stones becomes harder.
The pressure exerted by sleeping on the right side can also worsen gallbladder pain. It is also recommended to avoid sleeping on the stomach or the back. Unless the pain due to the bile duct blockage has passed, all these positions are uncomfortable.
Can Other Remedies Help Relieve the Gallbladder Pain?
Several lifestyle modifications and natural remedies can help reduce gallbladder pain. Some include
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Heat Compress - Applying heat to the affected area can relieve pain. In case of gallbladder pain, heat compress relieves the pressure and calms the spasms formed from the build-up of bile. Heat compress can be done using a heating pad, hot water bottle, or wet towel with warm water. Apply any of them to the affected area for about ten to fifteen minutes. This process has to be repeated until the pain resolves. While applying the compress, always make sure not to place the hot surface directly on the skin area as it may burn the area.
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Peppermint Tea - Peppermint contains a soothing compound called menthol, which helps relieve pain. This compound can also relieve stomach pain, nausea and improve digestion. In addition, drinking peppermint tea can improve gallbladder pain. It is believed that drinking tea daily can help reduce gallbladder pain attacks.
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Apple Cider Vinegar - It contains various anti-inflammatory properties which help relieve gallbladder pain. Two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar should be dissolved in warm water, and the tonic should be sipped until the pain resolves. Drinking apple cider vinegar directly can cause damage to the teeth, so always mix it with water before consumption.
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Turmeric - Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which is well known for its healing and anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat various health conditions. Turmeric helps in bile production, helping with gallbladder emptying. It also reduces pain and inflammation. Turmeric can be a dietary supplement or be made into a tea that has to be taken daily for pain relief. It is important to discuss the dosage of a dietary supplement with the doctor before consumption.
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Magnesium - Magnesium is a component that helps reduce gallbladder pain, spasms and helps in the emptying of the gallbladder. A deficiency in magnesium increases the risk of the formation of gallstones. A teaspoon of magnesium powder should be mixed in warm water and taken every few hours to reduce the pain. Magnesium can also be available as a supplement. Before taking any supplements, discussing the dosage with the doctor is necessary.
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Dietary Modifications - Consuming foods high in fats and sugars and poor dietary habits can increase the risk of gallstones and gallbladder disease. Consuming a diet with more fiber and less fat is essential to improve health and prevent gallstones. Fried foods or fruits which contain fats are difficult to break down, which can cause further pain. Incorporating nutrient-rich food into the diet, like fruits and vegetables, can improve the gallbladder's functioning and prevent complications. Some foods that must be included in the diet are nuts, whole grains, brown rice, beans, dark green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, low-fat dairy, olive oil, and fish.
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Exercise - Exercising regularly will prevent the formation of gallstones and reduce cholesterol levels. All though gallstones are small, there are chances of them growing into a larger size. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the pain and the number of pain attacks. At least 150 minutes of exercise is required weekly to prevent weight gain and improve overall health. While exercise is beneficial, certain activities can cause strain to the abdomen areas and worsen the symptoms. Hence, it is essential to consult the healthcare professional before performing any strained physical activity.
Conclusion
Gallbladder pain is a common condition caused by gallstones blocking of the bile duct. Since the gallbladder is on the right side of the body, lying on that side can compress the area, causing more pain. When lying on the left side, the gallbladder can move freely on the left side, making it easier for the gallbladder stone to pass. In addition, many other home remedies help ease the pain, including warm compresses, peppermint tea, and certain dietary modifications.
