Biliary Colic

Biliary colic is a pattern of severe, cramping pain caused by transient gallbladder blockage, most often from gallstones. Pain typically starts after meals and can radiate to the back or shoulder blade.

What biliary colic feels like

Patients in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch often describe a sudden, intense wave of right upper abdominal pain that lasts 30 minutes to several hours. It may be accompanied by nausea or sweating.

Why it matters

Even if the pain resolves, biliary colic signals a mechanical problem with the gallbladder. Recurrent episodes increase the risk of cholecystitis or bile duct obstruction.

Treatment options

When symptoms are consistent with biliary colic, gallbladder removal is the definitive solution. Our team offers minimally invasive and robotic approaches with prompt scheduling when appropriate.

Schedule a Gallbladder Consultation with Florida Surgical Specialists in Bradenton or Lakewood Ranch. Our AI-answered phones help you connect without delay.

Related gallbladder pages

• Gallstones
• Right upper quadrant pain
• Pain after eating
• Gallbladder removal
• When gallbladder pain is dangerous

FAQ

• How is biliary colic different from indigestion? Biliary colic is typically intense, episodic, and localized to the right upper abdomen, often following fatty meals.
• Can biliary colic resolve on its own? Symptoms can temporarily resolve, but the underlying gallbladder problem usually remains.
• Is surgery recommended after one attack? If imaging confirms gallstones and symptoms match, surgery is often recommended to prevent recurrence.