Gallbladder issues
Hi everyone. I'm 34, had a baby last September and when he was about 12 weeks old I had my first gallbladder attack. It was horrifically bad, easily on par with childbirth. I've since had another 7 or 8 attacks. I've been to my GP and had a confirmation ultrasound so it's confirmed they're there and the cause of my pain. She's referred me to a private hospital for surgery but it's been months and I'm still waiting to hear back (I confirmed with the GP surgery that she definitely sent it and she even had an acknowledgement from the hospital that they've received it). She also told me if I have another attack to go to a&e. That was probably 5 attacks ago. I haven't bothered because if I take painkillers within about 40 minutes it'll have calmed enough that I can get back to sleep and it's always been gone in the morning. Practically speaking, going to a&e wouldn't be easy. I'm in too much pain to drive and the baby is asleep so my husband can't just get up and drive me. We don't really know our neighbours and family live too far away. I've always put it off because I can take painkillers at home and not cause any further hassle. He wanted me to call an ambulance last night. So my questions are, 1) is it reasonable to call 999 for an ambulance for this? It feels awful dramatic for a pain that I know I can get past within the hour and 2) what can a&e actually do for me? Beyond a painkiller I can take at home, would I just be submitting myself to a night without sleep (very precious with a 9 month old at home!)? Anyone's previous experience would be very helpful!