Why does the gallbladder shrink due to gallstones?

Gallstones may cause the gallbladder to shrink due to inflammation of the gallbladder wall, decreased gallbladder function, and long-term irritation from the stones. Treatments include medication, surgery, and dietary changes.

1. Gallbladder wall inflammation

Long-term presence of gallstones can irritate the gallbladder wall and lead to chronic inflammation. Repeated inflammation can cause the gallbladder wall to thicken and fibrose, eventually leading to a reduction in the size of the gallbladder. This is common in patients with long-term untreated gallstones. For treatment, anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen can be used to relieve symptoms, combined with antibiotics such as cephalosporins to control infection. For severe inflammation, surgery may be required to remove the gallbladder.

2. Hypofunction of the gallbladder

Gallstones can block the normal discharge of bile, causing the gallbladder to be in a state of fullness for a long time. Over time, the contraction function of the gallbladder gradually decreases. The muscles of the gallbladder wall atrophy and the volume decreases. This condition can be treated with drugs that promote bile discharge, such as ursodeoxycholic acid, combined with a low-fat diet to reduce the burden on the gallbladder. For severely impaired gallbladders, surgical removal is a common option.

3. Long-term stimulation of stones

Long-term presence of gallstones will constantly rub against the gallbladder wall, causing damage and fibrosis to the gallbladder wall, and eventually shrinking the gallbladder. This is more common in patients with larger stones or a large number of stones. In terms of treatment, the stone problem can be solved through extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy or laparoscopic cholecystectomy. After the operation, you need to pay attention to dietary conditioning, avoid high-fat, high-cholesterol foods, and eat more fiber-rich foods such as oats and vegetables.

Gallbladder shrinkage is a common complication of gallstones and requires prompt treatment to avoid further damage. Medication, surgery, and dietary adjustments are the main means, and the specific plan should be formulated by the doctor based on the patient's condition. Regular physical examinations and a healthy diet can help prevent gallstones and their complications.