Gallbladder stones, also called gallstones, are hard, pebble-like deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ under the liver. The main job of this organ is to store bile, a fluid made by the liver that helps break down fats. Gallstones can be of different sizes and numbers, and they can cause different symptoms. This blog will talk about gallbladder stone symptoms, its causes, and ways to treat it. Alongside, you will get to know about effective precautions.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of gallstones depend on how big they are and where they are. Some people might not have any signs, while others might be in a lot of pain. Some common gallbladder stone symptoms are:
- Abdominal Pain:The most common symptom is pain in the upper right or middle part of the abdomen. This pain can be sharp, cramp-like, or a dull ache, and it can spread to the right shoulder or back. It usually happens after eating fatty or oily foods and can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours.
- Nausea and vomiting:If you have gallstones, you may also feel sick and throw up.
- Gallstones can make it hard for the gallbladder to release bile, which can lead to indigestion, bloating, and gas.
- Jaundice:If a gallstone blocks the bile duct, it can cause bilirubin to build up in the bloodstream. This makes the skin and eyes yellow, which is called jaundice.
- Fever and Chills:Fever and chills can be caused by an infection or swelling of the gallbladder.
If you experience any such signs, you should see a doctor right away. Gallstones can cause serious problems if they are not treated.
Why gallbladder stones form
Cholesterol and bilirubin, which are found in the bile, can harden into stones. This is how gallstones form. Gallstones usually come in two main forms- cholesterol stones and pigment stones. No one knows for sure what causes gallstones, but there are a few things that could be to blame:
- An Unbalanced Bile Composition:Gallstones can form if the bile has too much cholesterol or bilirubin or not enough bile salts.
- Gallbladder Dysfunction:If the gallbladder doesn’t empty completely or often enough, the bile can get thicker, which makes gallstones more likely to form.
- Genetic Factors:If you have a family history, you may be more likely to get them.
- Obesity:Too much body fat can increase the amount of cholesterol in bile and make the gallbladder less effective, which can cause gallstones to form.
- Diet:A diet that is high in fat and low in fiber may make gallstones more likely to form.
- Rapid Weight Loss:If you lose weight too quickly, the liver will release more cholesterol into the bile, which can make gallstones more likely.
Different Ways to Treat Gallbladder Stones
The right treatment for gallstones depends on how bad the symptoms are and how healthy the person is overall. Some options for treatment are:
Watchful waiting: If gallstones don’t hurt, they might not need to be treated right away. Gallbladder stone symptoms need to be checked on regularly by a medical professional to make sure they don’t get worse.
Medication: Sometimes, doctors will give you medicine to break up gallstones. Most of the time, this treatment is only used for small cholesterol stones, and it may take a few months to work.
Surgical Intervention: If gallstones cause a lot of pain or other problems, surgery may be needed. The most common surgery is cholecystectomy, in which the gallbladder is removed. This can be done with laparoscopic techniques that are less invasive or with more traditional open surgery. Most people prefer laparoscopic cholecystectomy because it takes less time to heal and has fewer side effects.
Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): ERCP can be used to remove a gallstone that is blocking the bile duct. During this procedure, a flexible tube with a camera is put through the mouth, down the esophagus, into the stomach and small intestine, and then into the bile ducts. After that, tools can be put through the tube to get rid of the stone.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL): This non-invasive treatment uses high-energy shock waves to break gallstones into smaller pieces that can then pass through the bile ducts. ESWL is not often used to treat gallstones because it may not work as well as other treatments and there is a chance that the stones will come back.
Preventing Gall Bladder Stones
Even though it may not be possible to completely avoid gallstones, there are things you can do to lower your chances of getting them:
- Stay at a healthy weight:Getting to and staying at a healthy weight can help lower the chance of getting gallstones. Don’t lose weight quickly, because it can make you more likely to get gallstones.
- Eat a Balanced Diet:A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein sources can help promote gallbladder health. Limit the consumption of fatty and high-cholesterol foods to minimise the risk of gallstones.
- Exercise Regularly:Engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of gallstones.
- Stay Hydrated:Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help prevent gallstone formation by promoting the proper flow of bile
Gallbladder stones are a common and potentially painful condition that can lead to a range of gallbladder stone symptoms. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is essential for maintaining gallbladder health and seeking appropriate medical care when necessary.
Max Healthcare has experienced surgeons to treat gallbladder stones, get an expert opinion. By making healthy lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and staying hydrated, individuals can reduce their risk of developing gallstones and improve their overall well-being. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional if you experience any gallbladder stone symptoms, as early intervention can help prevent complications and ensure the most effective treatment.
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