Gallbladder Cancer Symptoms

What are common symptoms of gallbladder cancer?

Gallbladder cancer can be tough to detect early because there aren’t usually symptoms until it’s more advanced. Sometimes, it’s discovered during surgery for gallstones or other reasons.

However, you may notice these possible signs of gallbladder cancer. These symptoms could be caused by a lot of different health conditions, including gallstones in some cases, but it’s important to see a health care provider if you notice them:

• Belly pain: Pain in the upper right side of the abdomen that may get worse over time.
• Jaundice: Yellow skin and eyes, caused when the bile duct is blocked by the tumor. Jaundice is a sign that the cancer is advanced.
• Nausea and vomiting: Cancer that blocks the digestive tract may cause these symptoms.
• Losing weight: As cancer progresses, it can cause weight loss.
• Bloating: A feeling of fullness, even after eating a small amount.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.
• Fever: Body temperature may increase in response to cancer.
• Abdominal mass: You may notice a lump or mass in the upper right abdomen.

When to see a health care provider

If you have any of these symptoms, especially abdominal pain that doesn’t ease up, jaundice or unexplained weight loss, see a health care provider. It’s also important to see a provider if you have a history of gallstones or gallbladder inflammation and you have new symptoms, or your symptoms are getting worse.

Diagnostic tests can help find out what’s causing any symptoms. Learn about tests and diagnosis for gallbladder cancer. 

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