But there are multiple theories about how diabetes and insulin resistance in general affect gallbladder health. For one, people with type 2 diabetes tend to be overweight or obese, one of the main risk factors of gallbladder disease. Obesity increases cholesterol secretion into the bile, which can accumulate in the gallbladder and eventually lead to the formation of gallstones. People with diabetes also have higher levels of triglycerides, a type of fat that may encourage gallstone formation, according to the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. Another theory is that stones form because of what is called autonomic neuropathy, or damage from diabetes to the involuntary nerves that control movement of the bowels and gallbladder. According to research published in the International Journal of Medical and Dental Sciences, the bile stored in the gallbladder is not released efficiently because the nerves are damaged, and gallstones form from the resulting sludge.
How to Manage Diabetes to Prevent Gallbladder Problems
Dr. Krikorian says that for a person living with diabetes, controlling your condition is the best way to head off gallbladder problems. Tips for controlling your diabetes include:
Developing a management plan with your doctor that focuses on diet and exerciseTaking your medicationMonitoring your blood sugar levels as directed by your doctor
When diabetes is under control, it’s much less likely that autonomic neuropathy will become an issue and your triglyceride levels should be lower — thus decreasing your odds of developing gallstones, according to Krikorian.
Know the Symptoms of a Gallbladder Problem
Because people with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing gallstones, Krikorian says, it’s important to know the symptoms of common gallbladder problems, such as gallstones. Symptoms of a gallbladder attack may include:
Sudden pain in the right upper abdomen that can last several hoursPain between the shoulder blades or under the right shoulderAbdominal pain centered on the right side that gets worse after eatingUnexplained nausea or vomiting
Getting Treatment for Gallbladder Problems When You Have Diabetes
People with diabetes are usually considered high risk for any surgery, including gallbladder surgery, says Krikorian. But, in most cases, when gallstones are problematic, the best course of action is to remove the gallbladder. According to Krikorian, controlling the diabetes doesn’t change after the gallbladder is removed. In general, whether they have diabetes or not, most people can avoid gallbladder problems by eating a consistently balanced diet, getting enough exercise, and managing their overall health. Additional reporting by Jamie Putman
