Polyps, or abnormal outgrowths of tissue, can sometimes develop within the gallbladder. In the majority of cases, these growths cause no major health issues and do not always require treatment. However, it depends on what type of growth a person experiences:
Treatment of gallbladder polyps and tumours varies according to the type of polyp a person experiences.
People with pseudopolyps and inflammatory polyps do not often experience symptoms. In this case, their condition will be monitored to detect any changes in polyp size or symptoms.
With true polyps, gallbladder removal will be recommended for large polyps. Surgery is also necessary if polyps are interfering with the function of the gallbladder or causing inflammation. Malignant polyps can also require surgery, along with other cancer treatments.
As for medication, it can be used to manage symptoms and complications related to gallbladder polyps. If polyps cause inflammation, you may receive antibiotics for any bacterial infections that result. Pain medication can also be administered to manage abdominal discomfort.
Having a high cholesterol level can increase a person’s risk of developing pseudopolyps. In this case, managing cholesterol can reduce your chance of developing gallbladder growths of this nature. Cholesterol drugs like statins are effective, but you can also improve cholesterol levels by eating a proper diet that includes the following foods:
Other types of polyps cannot always be avoided, but the good news is that most people with this condition experience few – if any – major health effects.