Which gallstones require treatment?

Whether or not gallstones require treatment depends mainly on symptoms, size, and location. Small, asymptomatic gallstones usually do not require treatment, but if obvious symptoms or complications occur, prompt intervention is necessary. Symptoms include severe pain in the right upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting, difficulty in digestion, and even fever. At this time, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately to avoid worsening of the condition.

The treatment of gallstones depends on the specific situation. For patients who are in pain and at risk of infection, lithotripsy can be treated with drugs, such as ursodeoxycholic acid, to reduce the cholesterol concentration in the bile. Patients with large gallstones or recurrent infections are more suitable for surgical treatment. The most common surgery is laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is less invasive and has a quick recovery. If the patient has biliary obstruction, choledochoscopy-assisted stone removal may also be required. For high-risk patients who are not suitable for surgery, percutaneous gallbladder drainage can also be selected to relieve symptoms. Patients with asymptomatic but large gallstones or other risk factors (such as diabetes, gallbladder polyps) should also consider early treatment to prevent complications.

The treatment of gallstones depends on the specific situation. For patients who are in pain and at risk of infection, lithotripsy can be treated with drugs, such as ursodeoxycholic acid, to reduce the cholesterol concentration in the bile. Patients with large gallstones or recurrent infections are more suitable for surgical treatment. The most common surgery is laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is less invasive and has a quick recovery. If the patient has biliary obstruction, choledochoscopy-assisted stone removal may also be required. For high-risk patients who are not suitable for surgery, percutaneous gallbladder drainage can also be selected to relieve symptoms. Patients with asymptomatic but large gallstones or other risk factors (such as diabetes, gallbladder polyps) should also consider early treatment to prevent complications.

In daily life, patients should pay attention to dietary management and choose a low-fat, high-fiber diet, such as eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and avoiding high-fat, high-sugar foods. Moderate exercise can help improve bile circulation, thereby reducing the risk of recurrence of gallstones. If you experience frequent abdominal pain or other discomfort, please seek medical evaluation as soon as possible to avoid missing the best time for treatment.