Connect with others who understand.

Sign up Log in
Resources
About MyLupusTeam
Powered By
See answer

5 Facts About Lupus and Gallbladder Surgery

Medically reviewed by Florentina Negoi, M.D.
Posted on June 29, 2023

When you are living with lupus, the idea of undergoing a procedure — even something routine like gallbladder surgery — can be scary. Your mind might race with questions: “Why do I need surgery? How should I prepare? What are the risks?”

Members of MyLupusTeam have raised their questions and concerns. One member asked, “Have any of you had to get surgery to get your gallbladder removed?”

Gallbladder removal, also called cholecystectomy, is a common general surgery that is sometimes done to address gallbladder disease. If you have lupus (also called systemic lupus erythematosus or SLE) and are facing gallbladder surgery, these five facts might help answer some of your questions.

1. Lupus May Affect the Gallbladder

The gallbladder, a small organ in the upper right quadrant (quarter) of your abdomen, stores and excretes bile (a substance that breaks down fatty foods). However, the gallbladder is prone to developing stones, inflammation, and infection, and is often removed in people with and without lupus.

One member explained their history of gallbladder disease and lupus: “Over many years, my gallbladder would give me severe pain, but they couldn’t find stones. Eventually, my gallbladder became infected and had to be removed. After I was diagnosed with lupus, my doctors believed my problems were autoimmune all along.”

Lupus has rarely been found to cause inflammation in the gallbladder, sometimes without any gallstones, due to an attack by the body’s misguided immune system. This condition is called acute acalculous cholecystitis, which causes abdominal pain and vomiting and can be one of the first signs of SLE. The exact mechanisms linking lupus and gallbladder problems are not fully understood but may be related to the autoimmune characteristics of lupus. More research is needed to understand the effects of lupus and its treatment on the gastrointestinal system, including the gallbladder.

2. Severe Gallbladder Problems May Require Surgery

Gallbladder problems, such as gallstones or inflammation, cause symptoms such as:

  • Pain in the upper right abdominal area, below the rib cage
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Indigestion

If you experience these symptoms, consult with your health care provider for an accurate diagnosis. During the physical examination, your doctor will assess your level of pain and ask questions about your medical history. Imaging tests may include ultrasound and CT scans. Laboratory tests may include a complete blood cell count to check your levels of white blood cells (a sign of inflammation) and your platelet count, as well as a blood test to look for bilirubin. The presence of this yellowish substance, which is in bile, may indicate a blockage in your biliary tract (the gallbladder and bile ducts).

Cholecystectomy is typically recommended for severe symptoms or complications related to gallbladder problems, such as repeated gallstone attacks, infection, or blocked bile ducts. Your health care provider will determine if surgery is the most appropriate treatment option for you.

3. Most Gallbladder Surgery Is Minimally Invasive

If you’ve been told that you need gallbladder surgery, be sure to let your surgeon know about your lupus right away. It’s also important to tell your rheumatologist about your gallbladder disease and need for surgery, as you may have complications if your disease activity is not under control or if some lupus treatments may be interrupted for a while. Together, your health care team will consider the potential impact of lupus on gallbladder surgery to ensure that the procedure is safe for you.

The most common type of gallbladder surgery is laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is also the least invasive. Four small incisions allow the surgeon to insert a small video camera and special tools so they can see inside your abdomen and remove the gallbladder. Many people can have the surgery and return home the same day.

An open cholecystectomy is more invasive, requiring one 6-inch incision in the abdomen. The longer incision means a longer hospital stay, usually two or three days.

When preparing for your procedure, follow your surgeon’s instructions closely. For example, they will probably ask you to not eat the night before so that you go into surgery on an empty stomach. They’ll also let you know if you should continue using your lupus treatments as prescribed or stop taking certain medications, such as steroids like prednisone.

Even if you undergo a laparoscopy, it’s wise to pack toiletries and a change of clothes in case you develop complications and are hospitalized. You’ll also need to make arrangements for someone to drive you home and stay with you overnight.

4. Your Surgical Team Will Consider Lupus-Related Risks

Like any surgical procedure, gallbladder surgery comes with certain risks, including:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Injury to nearby body structures
  • Side effects of general anesthesia, such as blood clots

Having lupus brings additional considerations regarding procedures like gallbladder surgery. For example, autoimmune diseases like lupus raise the risk of antiphospholipid syndrome. This condition develops when the immune system mistakenly makes antibodies that increase the likelihood of blood clotting.

It’s crucial to talk with your health care provider about the surgery’s potential risks and benefits, taking into account your lupus and overall health status, including other autoimmune conditions, such as Sjӧgren’s syndrome (a long-lasting autoimmune condition that causes dryness in the eyes and mouth). Make sure your surgeon, anesthesiologist, and nurses are aware of your lupus and any other conditions, all medications and supplements you take, and any known sensitivities.

5. You Could Have a Lupus Flare After Gallbladder Surgery

Proper postoperative care will help you make a smooth recovery. After gallbladder surgery, your plan will focus on:

  • Managing pain
  • Slowly reintroducing a regular diet
  • Taking medications as prescribed

People with lupus may need additional support during recovery. For example, surgery’s stress on the body and potential changes in medication can trigger lupus flares. Make sure to closely monitor your symptoms and report any significant changes to your health care provider to ensure a full recovery after gallbladder surgery.

Never hesitate to ask your medical team questions about your care. “Ask good questions, and make sure you understand what they are suggesting you do for this condition,” one MyLupusTeam member advised. “Ask about downtime, pain control, and long-term expectations from surgery.” Getting gallbladder surgery on top of living with lupus may seem overwhelming, but your health care team is there to help you every step of the way.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyLupusTeam is the social network for people with lupus and their loved ones. On MyLupusTeam, more than 223,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with lupus.

Have you needed gallbladder surgery since your lupus diagnosis? What advice can you offer others who are facing surgery? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.

    Posted on June 29, 2023

    A MyLupusTeam Member

    Is interesting how can LSE damage any organ i'm your body, i hope i don't have to go trough this process ☀️🙏🌻

    November 18, 2023
    All updates must be accompanied by text or a picture.

    We'd love to hear from you! Please share your name and email to post and read comments.

    You'll also get the latest articles directly to your inbox.

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
    All updates must be accompanied by text or a picture.

    Subscribe now to ask your question, get answers, and stay up to date on the latest articles.

    Get updates directly to your inbox.

    This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

    I Have Lupus And Going To Have Gallbladder Remove Is There Any Suggestion I Am Scare

    June 19, 2024 by A MyLupusTeam Member 2 answers
    Florentina Negoi, M.D. attended the Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest, Romania, and is currently enrolled in a rheumatology training program at St. Mary Clinical Hospital. Learn more about her here.
    Scarlett Bergam, M.P.H. is a medical student at George Washington University and a former Fulbright research scholar in Durban, South Africa. Learn more about her here.

    Related Articles

    If you’re dealing with lupus symptoms like fatigue, a quick lunch with lupus-friendly ingredients...

    3 Quick Lupus-Friendly Lunches

    If you’re dealing with lupus symptoms like fatigue, a quick lunch with lupus-friendly ingredients...
    Extreme fatigue and joint pain from living with lupus can make meal prep even more of a chore tha...

    3 Make-Ahead Breakfasts for Lupus

    Extreme fatigue and joint pain from living with lupus can make meal prep even more of a chore tha...
    When you’ve been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), seeking the best care for you...

    Lupus Appointment Guide: 8 Tips for Visiting a Rheumatologist

    When you’ve been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), seeking the best care for you...
    Race and other factors, including sex and age, can affect the health outcomes of people in the Un...

    Is Lupus More Common in Certain Races? 3 Risk Factors To Know

    Race and other factors, including sex and age, can affect the health outcomes of people in the Un...
    Living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common type of lupus, can be expensive. ...

    6 Ways To Save Money With Lupus: Insurance, Medication, Housing, and More

    Living with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the most common type of lupus, can be expensive. ...
    In a recent survey of MyLupusTeam members, respondents shared how lupus interferes with their dai...

    Survey: 91 Percent of MyLupusTeam Members Say Lupus Interferes With Quality of Life

    In a recent survey of MyLupusTeam members, respondents shared how lupus interferes with their dai...

    Recent Articles

    Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also known as lupus, is an autoimmune disease that affects ma...

    Is Lupus Hereditary? The Genetics of Lupus

    Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also known as lupus, is an autoimmune disease that affects ma...
    Turmeric is more than just a seasoning. This bright, golden-yellow spice may help fight inflammat...

    3 Easy Dinner Recipes With Turmeric

    Turmeric is more than just a seasoning. This bright, golden-yellow spice may help fight inflammat...
    If your rings feel tighter than they used to, you might wonder why. Autoimmune diseases like lupu...

    Are Swollen Fingers a Cause for Concern With Lupus?

    If your rings feel tighter than they used to, you might wonder why. Autoimmune diseases like lupu...
    Having systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, the most common form of lupus) can increase your risk f...

    Lupus and Thyroid Eye Disease: 7 Facts To Know

    Having systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE, the most common form of lupus) can increase your risk f...
    MyHealthTeam does not provide health services, and if you need help, we’d strongly encourage you ...

    Crisis Resources

    MyHealthTeam does not provide health services, and if you need help, we’d strongly encourage you ...
    Welcome to MyLupusTeam — the place to connect with others living with lupus. This video will wal...

    Getting Started on MyLupusTeam (VIDEO)

    Welcome to MyLupusTeam — the place to connect with others living with lupus. This video will wal...

    Thank you for subscribing!

    Become a member to get even more: