Should I remove my gallbladder for severe gallstones?

Severe gallstones usually require removal of the gallbladder to prevent complications such as cholecystitis, bile duct obstruction, or pancreatitis. Treatments include surgical removal, medications, and dietary changes.

1. Surgical resection is the main method for treating severe gallstones. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most commonly used surgical method, with less trauma and faster recovery. Traditional open surgery is suitable for complex cases. Percutaneous cholecystostomy is suitable for patients who cannot undergo surgery immediately as a temporary treatment.

2. Drug treatment is mainly used to relieve symptoms or prepare for surgery. Ursodeoxycholic acid can be used to dissolve cholesterol stones, but the course of treatment is long and the recurrence rate is high. Antibiotics are used to treat cholecystitis and control infection. Painkillers such as ibuprofen can relieve biliary colic.

3. Diet adjustment plays an important role in preventing recurrence and relieving symptoms. A low-fat diet can reduce gallbladder contraction and avoid inducing pain. A high-fiber diet such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits helps bile excretion. Limit high-cholesterol foods such as animal offal and egg yolks to reduce the risk of stone formation.

The formation of gallstones is related to many factors. Genetic factors such as family history increase the risk of disease. Environmental factors such as high-fat and high-cholesterol diet, obesity, rapid weight loss, etc. promote stone formation. Physiological factors such as female sex, multiple pregnancies, and aging affect the composition of bile. Trauma such as abdominal surgery may damage gallbladder function. Pathological factors such as diabetes, cirrhosis and other diseases change bile metabolism.

Symptoms of gallstones include right upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, etc. In severe cases, it can cause complications such as cholecystitis, cholangitis, and pancreatitis. Asymptomatic gallstones can be observed regularly, and surgery is recommended when symptoms occur or the risk of complications is high.

After cholecystectomy, the quality of life of most patients is not affected. Diarrhea and indigestion may occur in the short term after surgery, which usually improves over time. In the long term, you need to pay attention to your diet and avoid overeating. Regular follow-up examinations should be conducted to monitor liver function.

The treatment of severe gallstones needs to be tailored to the patient's specific situation. Surgical resection is the main method, with drug therapy and dietary adjustment as auxiliary. Timely medical treatment and treatment according to the doctor's advice can effectively prevent complications and improve prognosis.