Laparoscopic gallbladder removal: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, confusion or severe pain that is not controlled by the recommended medicine.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Contact your surgical team promptly if you develop:
Increasing abdominal pain or swelling
Repeated vomiting or difficulty keeping fluids down
Fever, chills or feeling increasingly unwell
Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine or pale stools
Redness, warmth, pus or worsening pain around a wound
Persistent watery diarrhoea or digestive symptoms affecting daily life
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine questions about returning to work, mild bruising, dissolving stitches or gradually improving discomfort can usually be discussed during normal clinic hours.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Laparoscopic gallbladder removal. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.