Introduction
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that sits underneath a section of the liver. The gallbladder concentrates and stores bile, which is used in the digestive process. This organ can acquire 1 of 2 varieties of cancerous tumors: adenocarcinomas or papillary tumors. Both forms of gallbladder cancer are diagnosed by 1 of several available tests, and there are key symptoms to learn about and watch for in order to detect the early stages of this disease.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderate
Identify the Signs of Gallbladder Cancer
Things You'll Need
- Internet connection
- Computer
- Oncologist
Steps
1
Step One
Learn about the risk factors for gallbladder cancer. Those with a history of gallstones or those who are typhoid carriers run a much higher risk of contracting the disease.
2
Step Two
See the signs for possible gallbladder cancer. The most common symptoms include abdominal pain, regular nausea or vomiting, jaundice and gallbladder enlargement.
3
Step Three
Notice additional symptoms, such as loss of appetite, severe itching, abdominal swelling and black, tarry stools.
Test for Gallbladder Cancer
Steps
1
Step One
Schedule an exam with an oncologist if you suspect you may be ill.
2
Step Two
Reveal any medical history of cancer and report any symptoms you may experience.
3
Step Three
Get tested for gallbladder cancer. This often begins with a blood test and full physical.
4
Step Four
Submit to imaging tests such as ultrasounds and CT scans. These allow doctors to look inside the body and identify infected tissues and cells.
5
Step Five
Consider removing the gallbladder altogether if a problem is found. This is a common procedure, and it is entirely possible to live a healthy life without this organ.
