Gallbladder polyps right abdominal distension and discomfort

Gallbladder polyps may cause right-sided abdominal distension and discomfort and are usually related to gallbladder dysfunction, inflammation, or cholesterol metabolism disorders. Treatment options include regular monitoring, medication, and surgical removal, depending on the size of the polyp and the severity of symptoms.

1. Causes of Gallbladder Polyps

The formation of gallbladder polyps may be related to a variety of factors. Genetic factors may make some people more susceptible to abnormal cholesterol metabolism, leading to the growth of polyps. Environmental factors such as a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet may also increase the risk. In terms of physiological factors, abnormal gallbladder function or chronic inflammation may stimulate the formation of polyps. Trauma or a history of gallbladder surgery may also induce polyps. Pathologically, gallbladder polyps are divided into cholesterol polyps, inflammatory polyps and adenomatous polyps, among which adenomatous polyps have the potential risk of malignant transformation.

2. Symptoms and diagnosis of gallbladder polyps

Gallbladder polyps usually have no obvious symptoms, but when the polyps are large or combined with cholecystitis, right abdominal distension, dull pain or indigestion may occur. Diagnosis mainly relies on ultrasound examination, which can determine the size, number and location of the polyps. For polyps with a diameter of more than 1 cm, further CT or MRI examination is recommended to assess the risk of malignancy.

3. Treatment of gallbladder polyps

For gallbladder polyps that are less than 1 cm in diameter and asymptomatic, regular follow-up examinations and ultrasound examinations every 6-12 months are usually recommended. In terms of drug treatment, ursodeoxycholic acid can be used to help dissolve cholesterol polyps, or anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve cholecystitis symptoms. For polyps that are more than 1 cm in diameter, grow rapidly, or are accompanied by obvious symptoms, surgical removal of the gallbladder is recommended. Surgical methods include laparoscopic cholecystectomy and open surgery. The former is less invasive and has a faster recovery.

4. Diet and lifestyle adjustments

In terms of diet, you should reduce the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, such as fried foods and animal offal, and increase fiber-rich foods such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains. Moderate exercise can help improve cholesterol metabolism. It is recommended to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming or cycling. Avoiding excessive fatigue and mood swings, and maintaining a regular schedule can also help gallbladder health.

Although gallbladder polyps are common, different treatments are needed according to the specific situation. Regular check-ups, proper medication and a healthy lifestyle are the key to managing gallbladder polyps. For high-risk groups or those with obvious symptoms, it is particularly important to seek medical treatment in a timely manner and follow the doctor's advice.