Q I'm recovering at home after gallbladder surgery. What symptoms mean I should go to the hospital right away?
A If you notice jaundice (yellowing of the eyes or skin), fever of 38°C or higher with chills, redness or discharge from the surgical wound, severe upper right abdominal pain, dark urine, or pale/gray stools, you should return to the hospital where you had surgery without delay. These can signal a bile duct problem or infection.
Detailed Answer
Most people recover smoothly after gallbladder removal, but there are warning signs that need immediate attention. Jaundice -- yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin -- along with dark brown urine and pale/gray stools can signal a blocked bile duct or a retained stone in the bile duct. Also, fever of 38°C or higher with chills, redness, discharge, or opening of the surgical wound, and worsening pain in the upper right abdomen can signal infection or a bile duct complication -- notify the hospital where you had surgery without delay.
Our Korean Medicine Clinic's Perspective
At Dongjedang, we also check for these warning signs first at your initial visit. If signs like jaundice, fever, or severe abdominal pain appear, we recommend returning to the hospital where you had surgery before Korean medicine treatment. Once these signs are ruled out, providing supportive care to build digestion and energy during the recovery period is the correct order -- this is how the care stays both safe and genuinely helpful.
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