How to treat gallstones

Treatments for gallstones include drug dissolution, minimally invasive surgery, and dietary adjustments. The appropriate method should be selected based on the severity of the patient's condition. Mild symptoms can be treated with medication or lifestyle adjustments, while severe cases may require surgical intervention.

1) Drug treatment

Drug treatment is suitable for early-stage gallstones, especially cholesterol stones. Commonly used drugs include ursodeoxycholic acid, which works by dissolving cholesterol stones. Liver function and gastrointestinal reactions need to be monitored regularly during medication. The treatment cycle is usually long, sometimes taking months or even years, and is suitable for those with mild symptoms.

2) Surgical treatment

When gallstones cause severe symptoms such as biliary colic, infection, or jaundice, surgery is the treatment of choice.

-Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: minimally invasive, safe, quick recovery, and the most common choice.

-Laparotomy: Suitable for complex cases with other complications.

-Percutaneous biliary drainage: Suitable for patients with severe infection or surgical contraindications.

Surgical treatment can completely solve the problem, but you need to pay attention to diet conditioning and recovery details after the operation.

3) Dietary adjustment and lifestyle intervention

Patients with mild symptoms or those recovering from surgery can improve symptoms or prevent recurrence by adjusting their diet.

- Low-fat diet: Reducing the cholesterol content in bile can help reduce the risk of gallstone formation, such as avoiding greasy and high-cholesterol foods.

-Increase dietary fiber: Eating more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can help promote bile flow, such as eating oats, brown rice, etc. every day.

-Control your weight: Avoid rapid weight loss in the short term; slow weight management can reduce the risk of gallstones.

The key to the treatment of gallstones is to choose the right method based on the patient's individual situation. Mild cases should be improved through medication and dietary intervention in a timely manner, while severe symptoms require timely surgical treatment. Patients with suspected symptoms are advised to seek medical attention as soon as possible, follow the doctor's advice and undergo necessary examinations to avoid delaying the disease.