Description

Gallstones are small, hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. They can vary in size and composition and may cause symptoms or complications in some people. Here's an overview of gallstones: What Are Gallstones? Gallstones are solid particles that develop from bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. There are two main types: Cholesterol gallstones: The most common type, made primarily of undissolved cholesterol. Pigment gallstones: Smaller and darker, made of bilirubin (a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown). Causes and Risk Factors Gallstones form when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. Risk factors include: Gender: Women are more likely to develop gallstones. Age: Risk increases with age. Obesity: Excess weight can increase cholesterol in bile. Rapid weight loss: This can cause the liver to release extra cholesterol into bile. Diet: High-fat, high-cholesterol, or low-fiber diets may contribute. Family history: Genetics can play a role. Medical conditions: Diabetes, liver disease, or blood disorders like sickle cell anemia. Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can increase the risk. Symptoms Many people with gallstones have no symptoms (called "silent gallstones"). However, if a gallstone blocks a bile duct, it can cause: Biliary colic: Sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen or center of the abdomen, often after eating fatty foods. Nausea or vomiting. Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) if the bile duct is blocked. Fever or chills: May indicate an infection (e.g., cholecystitis or cholangitis). Diagnosis Gallstones are typically diagnosed using: Ultrasound: The most common imaging test. CT scan or MRI: For more detailed images. Blood tests: To check for infection, inflammation, or jaundice. ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography): Used for both diagnosis and treatment. Treatment Treatment depends on symptoms and complications: Asymptomatic gallstones: No treatment is usually needed. Symptomatic gallstones: Surgery (Cholecystectomy): Removal of the gallbladder, often done laparoscopically. Medications: Oral bile acids to dissolve cholesterol stones (rarely used). ERCP: To remove stones from the bile ducts. Lifestyle changes: Eating a low-fat diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent gallstones. Complications If left untreated, gallstones can lead to: Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder. Pancreatitis: Inflammation of the pancreas due to blocked ducts. Cholangitis: Infection of the bile ducts. Gallbladder cancer (rare). If you suspect you have gallstones or are experiencing symptoms, consult our Top Gastroenterologist in Nagpur DR. SNEHAL MAKESHWAR, at his GASTRO CURE CLINIC, Panchsheel Square, Dhantoli Nagpur for proper evaluation and treatment. Let me know if you have more questions!..

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