Biliary Pain

Biliary pain, also known as biliary colic, is a type of abdominal discomfort associated with the gallbladder, a small organ located in the right upper abdomen. Biliary pain typically occurs when a stone or other obstruction blocks the bile duct, which carries bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine. The pain can be severe and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and fever. Biliary pain is usually felt in the upper right abdomen and can radiate to the back, chest, and shoulder. Pain can range from a dull ache to a sharp, cramping sensation. It typically occurs in waves, gradually increasing in intensity and then plateauing or decreasing. The pain may last for minutes or hours, and it can occur intermittently or constantly. In some cases, biliary pain can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as an infection or inflammation of the gallbladder, which is known as cholecystitis. Other causes of biliary pain include gallstones, bile duct blockage due to a tumor or cyst, or a complication of gallbladder surgery.