This Podcast Will Kill You

Ep 184 The Gallbladder: Humor us

Aug 12, 2025
Discover the often-overlooked gallbladder and its dramatic role in digestive health. The hosts share humorous personal stories about gallbladder pain, including a harrowing journey to diagnosis. Dive into the fascinating world of bile — its history, functions, and quirky characteristics. Learn about gallstone formation, the health implications, and life after gallbladder removal. The light-hearted banter keeps the mood lively while exploring the gallbladder's historical ties to ancient medical theories and personal temperament.
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ANECDOTE

Severe Nighttime Gallbladder Attack

  • Maria described stabbing right-side pain and inability to sit up.
  • She delayed care until symptoms recurred and required hospitalization and laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
INSIGHT

Gallbladder: A Small Storage Pouch

  • Erin Allmann-Updyke compares the gallbladder to a 7–10 cm water skin sitting under the liver.
  • She explains its ducts connect the liver and pancreas and empty into the duodenum.
INSIGHT

Gallbladder Concentrates Bile

  • Erin Allmann-Updyke explains the gallbladder reabsorbs water via mucosal crypts to concentrate bile.
  • The gallbladder releases concentrated bile after meals to aid fat digestion.
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