What Happens If a Gallbladder Bursts? Symptoms, Risks and Emergency Signs (UK Guide)
Author context: After losing 6 stone on GLP-1 (Mounjaro), I required emergency NHS gallbladder surgery due to obstruction and inflammation. Surgeons warned my gallbladder could have ruptured within days. This guide explains what rupture means and why urgent care matters.
Short answer: If a gallbladder bursts (ruptures), bile and infection can leak into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to peritonitis, sepsis and life-threatening complications. A ruptured gallbladder is a medical emergency requiring urgent hospital treatment.
If you’re here because of severe right-side pain, read this carefully.
Read my full emergency surgery story here →
Start here: If you’re dealing with gallbladder symptoms (or recovery after removal) and want the full UK guide — symptoms, red flags, A&E triggers, surgery, recovery, diet and GLP-1 context — use the mega hub below.
GLP-1, Gallstones & Gallbladder Removal (UK): Mega FAQ Guide →
Can a gallbladder actually burst?
Yes. Severe inflammation (acute cholecystitis), untreated infection, or prolonged obstruction from gallstones can cause the gallbladder wall to weaken and perforate.
This is called a gallbladder rupture or perforation.
What happens when a gallbladder ruptures?
When rupture occurs:
- Bile leaks into the abdominal cavity
- Bacteria can spread
- Inflammation becomes widespread
- Peritonitis may develop
- Sepsis risk increases
This progression can happen rapidly if infection is severe.
Warning signs of possible rupture
Seek urgent medical care if you experience:
- Severe, worsening upper right abdominal pain
- Fever or shaking chills
- Rapid heart rate
- Confusion or weakness
- Yellowing of eyes (jaundice)
- Persistent vomiting
These symptoms require emergency assessment.
Table: Gallbladder Attack vs Possible Rupture
| Feature | Gallbladder Attack | Possible Rupture |
|---|---|---|
| Pain | Severe, steady | Worsening, spreading |
| Fever | May occur | Common and high |
| Systemic symptoms | Usually limited | Weakness, confusion, rapid pulse |
| Urgency | Urgent | Emergency |
How fast can this happen?
Rupture usually follows untreated severe inflammation or infection. In some cases, deterioration can happen over days. In others, progression is faster if infection spreads.
Does GLP-1 increase rupture risk?
GLP-1 medications themselves do not directly cause rupture. However, rapid weight loss may increase gallstone risk in some individuals, which can lead to obstruction and inflammation if untreated.
Read more about GLP-1 and gallstones here →
My experience
Surgeons explained that my gallbladder was severely inflamed and close to rupture. Acting quickly prevented a far more serious complication.
What treatment involves
- Emergency hospital admission
- Antibiotics
- Imaging scans
- Surgical removal (cholecystectomy)
Prompt treatment significantly reduces complications.
FAQs
Is a ruptured gallbladder fatal?
It can be life-threatening without treatment, but outcomes improve greatly with prompt medical care.
How do doctors detect rupture?
Blood tests, imaging scans and physical examination help identify perforation and infection.
Can gallstones always cause rupture?
No. Many gallstones remain asymptomatic. Rupture occurs when severe inflammation or infection progresses untreated.
How long does recovery take after emergency surgery?
Most people recover within weeks, though severe infections may extend recovery time.
Should GLP-1 users be worried?
Most GLP-1 users never experience gallbladder complications. Awareness of symptoms is more important than fear.
Disclaimer: This article provides educational information and lived experience. It does not replace professional medical advice. If you suspect a medical emergency, seek urgent care immediately.
