Symptoms of gallstones falling into the duodenum

Gallstones falling into the duodenum may cause abdominal pain, jaundice, indigestion and other symptoms. In severe cases, medical attention should be sought promptly. The reasons for gallstones entering the duodenum include abnormal gallbladder contraction, abnormal bile duct anatomy or excessive gallstones. Treatments include medication, endoscopic stone removal and surgical intervention.

1. Reasons why gallstones fall into the duodenum

Gallstones that pass from the gallbladder or bile duct into the duodenum are usually associated with abnormal gallbladder contraction. Inadequate gallbladder contraction may lead to cholestasis, making stones more mobile. Abnormal bile duct anatomy, such as dilatation or stenosis of the common bile duct, also increases the risk of stones passing into the duodenum. Larger stones may get stuck in the bile duct or at the opening of the duodenum during movement, causing obstruction.

2. Symptoms of gallstones falling into the duodenum

When a gallstone falls into the duodenum, the patient may experience severe pain in the upper abdomen that may radiate to the back or shoulders. Jaundice is another common symptom, which is manifested as yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. This is because the gallstone blocks the bile duct and bile cannot be discharged normally. Indigestion may also occur, including nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. If the gallstone causes duodenal obstruction, it may also be accompanied by bloating and constipation.

3. Treatment of gallstones falling into the duodenum

Medical treatment includes the use of antispasmodics such as atropine to relieve bile duct spasms, and choleretics such as ursodeoxycholic acid to promote bile excretion. Endoscopic lithotomy is a minimally invasive treatment method that removes stones from the duodenum through an endoscope and is suitable for smaller stones. For larger or impacted stones, surgical intervention may be necessary, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy or common bile duct exploration.

Gallstones falling into the duodenum is a disease that needs to be treated promptly. Symptoms include abdominal pain, jaundice and indigestion, and in severe cases may cause obstruction. Treatment methods include medication, endoscopic stone removal and surgery. The specific choice should be determined according to the size of the stone and the patient's condition. If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible to avoid further deterioration of the condition.