Is it normal to have diarrhea after gallstone surgery?

Diarrhea usually refers to loose or frequent bowel movements. In general, whether diarrhea after gallstone surgery is normal depends on the specific surgical procedure and the stage of postoperative recovery. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If a patient has undergone cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), mild diarrhea occurring within 1–3 months after surgery is mostly considered normal. The gallbladder stores bile, and after its removal, bile flows directly into the intestine. In the short term, the intestine may not adapt quickly enough to the continuous stimulation from bile, which can affect fat digestion and absorption, leading to increased frequency of bowel movements and looser stools. These symptoms typically improve gradually as the intestine adapts.

If a patient has undergone gallbladder-preserving stone removal surgery, or if diarrhea persists for more than three months after surgery and is accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, or blood in the stool, this is not considered normal. It may indicate complications such as postoperative biliary tract infection, abnormal bile drainage, or intestinal dysfunction caused by improper diet. Timely medical evaluation is necessary to identify the cause and prevent delays in treatment.

Post-surgery diet should be introduced gradually—starting with clear liquids, then progressing slowly to low-fat semi-liquids and soft foods. Avoid eating high-fat foods such as fried items or fatty meats too early. Maintain regular meal times with small, frequent meals to reduce the digestive burden on the intestines. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration caused by diarrhea. If diarrhea is frequent, keep a record of bowel movement frequency and stool characteristics to provide detailed information during medical consultations. Avoid self-medicating with anti-diarrheal drugs; any medication should be taken only under a doctor’s guidance.