The gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ about 4 inches long that's located under the liver. The only purpose of this tiny organ is releasing bile into the intestines to help break down food. While some people do not have any symptoms when they develop gallbladder problems, most suffer from pain, nausea, and other symptoms. The most common problem associated with the gallbladder is the development of stones, which usually prompt the removal of the entire gallbladder.These stones are caused by a buildup of bilirubin or cholesterol that harden into gallstones. Gallstones can lead to potentially serious complications, including pain, inflammation, and infection of the gallbladder. Infection is usually the result of a gallstone obstructing a duct that moves bile into the intestine. In severe cases, this infection can lead to gangrene, abscess, rupture, and blood infection.
