What to do if the gallstones hurt

If you have pain from gallstones, you should seek medical attention immediately. You can also relieve symptoms through medication, dietary adjustments, and surgical intervention. Gallstones are caused by abnormal deposition of bile components, and pain is often caused by stones blocking the bile duct.

1. Drug treatment: Doctors usually prescribe antispasmodics and analgesics such as atropine and anisodamine to help relieve bile duct spasms and pain. Choleretic drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid can promote bile excretion and reduce stone formation. Antibiotics such as cephalosporins or fluoroquinolones are used to prevent or treat infection.

2. Diet adjustment: Avoid high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, such as fried foods and animal offal, to reduce the burden of bile secretion. Increase fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits to help digestion and excretion. Drink plenty of water, keeping the daily water intake at 1.5-2 liters to dilute the bile concentration.

3. Surgical intervention: For patients with recurrent or severe symptoms, doctors may recommend surgical treatment. Cholecystectomy is a common option and can be done laparoscopically or open. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is used to remove stones in the bile duct. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is suitable for some patients and uses ultrasound to break up stones.

If you have pain from gallstones, you should seek medical attention promptly to avoid complications caused by delayed treatment. A combination of medication, diet, and surgery can effectively relieve symptoms and prevent recurrence.