Question:
I have irritable bowel syndrome; is it related to having my gallbladder out?

I have had varying degrees of chronic stomach cramping and loose bowel movements for my entire adult life. I had my gallbladder removed when I was 23 and the IBS symptoms seem to go back to that time now that I think about it. I never thought to connect it to my gallbladder surgery. Is there a connection? What exactly is the function of the gallbladder and what are the possible consequences of having it removed? There doesn't seem to be much relation between getting these symptoms and what I eat anymore. Lately, Ive had accidents because I was more than a couple minutes away from a bathroom. This is becoming such a crippling problem. Will losing a substantial amount of weight help? I'm 5'2 or so and 267, never have been this heavy. I have developed bladder incontinence since gaining so much weight, I wonder if that is why the sudden increase of bowel incontinence has appeared as well. Sorry for the long question, but I'd really really appreciate some advice.    — [Anonymous] (posted on August 23, 2001)

August 23, 2001
This was my worry, too. Put "irritable bowel syndrome" in the search engine on the first page of this site and you'll come up with several answers. Most folks found the surgery helped their IBS -- wouldn't that be nice? BTW, I have my gallbladder AND IBS.
   — [Deactivated Member]

August 23, 2001
I believe the two are connected -- they seemed to be for me. I had my gallbladder out about 15 years ago and had the same problems. What I've discovered is that it is your diet that causes this without your gallbladder. You'll likely find that after WLS, you'll stay away from most foods that set this off -- that is if you have RNY.
   — Cindy H.

February 16, 2004
There is new evidence to support the fact that some cases of IBS are linked to Lactose intolerance. Once the person eliminates dairy products, or at least cuts way back. The IBS goes away. Try doing this first and see if it helps.
   — Glenna S.