A woman who dismissed severe abdominal pain as trapped wind for two years was later diagnosed with gallbladder disease and told she could have died. Hannah Van De Peer, from Cornwall, initially experienced a dull, bloaty feeling on the right side of her stomach in August 2022 while on holiday. She assumed it was trapped wind and tried various remedies, but the pain escalated into excruciating episodes that lasted up to 20 hours.
Ignoring the Warning Signs
Despite the severity of her symptoms, Hannah avoided seeking medical help out of embarrassment. She feared wasting NHS resources and convinced herself it was just bloating. Over time, the flare-ups became more frequent and intense, often causing nausea and vomiting. In June 2024, she collapsed at a work party after the pain radiated to her back and upper stomach.
The Diagnosis
After an emergency GP appointment and multiple referrals, an ultrasound in April 2025 revealed a golfball-sized gallstone and chronic inflammation of her gallbladder. A locum GP informed her that she had gallbladder disease and faced risks of cancer, bowel perforation, and sepsis. She underwent urgent surgery to remove her gallbladder in June 2025.
Recovery and Advocacy
Hannah now feels great after the operation but may require lifelong medication. She emphasizes the importance of advocating for one's health and not dismissing symptoms. She urges others to speak to their GP without embarrassment. For more information on gallstones, visit the NHS website.
