Common methods of diagnosing gallstones

Common methods for diagnosing gallstones include ultrasound examination, blood tests, CT scans, etc., which can help doctors accurately determine the presence and severity of gallstones.

Ultrasound is the preferred diagnostic tool for gallstones because it is noninvasive, safe, and highly accurate. The imaging can clearly show the presence, size, and number of gallstones in the gallbladder. Blood tests are often used to evaluate inflammation or bile duct obstruction caused by stones to check for abnormalities in white blood cell counts and liver function indicators such as bilirubin levels. CT scans are suitable for more complex cases, especially those with suspected gallbladder duct obstruction or affected surrounding organs, and can provide clearer three-dimensional images. Magnetic resonance pancreaticobiliary imaging (MRCP) and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are further evaluation methods for the bile duct and pancreatic duct, respectively, and can be used especially when obstruction is suspected or complications are present.

You should eat a light diet, reduce the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, and increase dietary fiber appropriately to improve bile metabolism. At the same time, if you experience long-term dull pain in the right upper abdomen or jaundice, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible to avoid delaying treatment.