Gallstones, Gallbladder Stones
Symptoms, Causes, Types, Complications & Prevention
Gallbladder stones are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ that sits below the liver and stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fats. Gallstones can be made of cholesterol, bilirubin, or a combination of both.
What are the symptoms of gallbladder stones?
• Not everyone with gallbladder stones has symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:
• Upper right abdominal pain, often after eating fatty foods
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Pain in the back or shoulder
• Indigestion
• Bloating
• Gas
What are the causes of gallbladder stones?
• The exact gallbladder stones cause is unknown. However, there are certain factors that can increase your risk of developing them, such as:
Obesity
• Rapid weight loss
• Family history of gallbladder stones
• Certain medications, such as birth control pills
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and liver disease
How are gallbladder stones diagnosed?
• Your doctor can diagnose gallbladder stones by doing a physical exam and asking about your symptoms. They may also order one or more of the following tests:
• Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of the gallbladder and bile ducts.
• CT scan: This test uses X-rays to create detailed images of the inside of your body.
• MRI: This test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body.
How are gallbladder stones treated?
• The best treatment for gallbladder stones depends on the size and number of stones, your symptoms, and your overall health.
• Non-surgical treatment: In some cases, your doctor may recommend non-surgical treatments, such as:
–
Medications to dissolve the stones. However, these medications are not always effective and can have side effects. –
Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): This procedure uses sound waves to break up the stones into smaller pieces that can pass through the bile ducts.
• Surgical treatment: If your symptoms are severe or if your stones are large, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the gallbladder. There are two main types of surgery for gallbladder removal:
–
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: This minimally invasive surgery is performed through small incisions in the abdomen.
–
Open cholecystectomy: This more traditional surgery requires a larger incision in the abdomen.
Aftercare
• After surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few days. You will also need to follow your doctor's instructions for taking care of yourself at home. This may include eating a bland diet and avoiding strenuous activity.
Prevention
• There is no sure way to prevent gallbladder stones. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a healthy diet
• Avoiding rapid weight loss
• If you are taking medications that increase your risk of gallstones, talk to your doctor about other options.
• If you have any of the symptoms of gallbladder stones, it is important to see a doctor right away. With prompt diagnosis and treatment, you can get relief from your symptoms and prevent complications.
