What is the most effective way to treat gallstones?

The treatment of gallstones depends on the severity of the disease and the individual situation of the patient. The most effective methods currently include medication, surgery, and non-surgical minimally invasive techniques. For some mild gallstones, medications can help dissolve gallstones, but this method is usually slow and only applies to specific types of stones. Surgery is currently the most effective way to completely treat gallstones, especially for cases that recur or cause obvious symptoms, and laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a common choice. Non-surgical minimally invasive techniques such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy can be an alternative for people who do not want surgery.

Gallstones are mostly caused by genetic factors, poor eating habits, and abnormal cholesterol metabolism. Drug treatment mainly uses drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) to dissolve cholesterol stones, which is suitable for patients with small diameter and asymptomatic patients. Surgery is usually the first choice for patients with obvious symptoms or recurrent attacks. Compared with traditional open surgery, laparoscopic cholecystectomy has the advantages of less damage and faster recovery. Minimally invasive techniques such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy are suitable for some patients. The stones can be broken up by shock waves and then naturally discharged from the body. However, not all patients are suitable for non-surgical treatment. Patients need to listen to the advice of professional doctors according to their own conditions. For patients with high surgical risks, stone removal or lithotripsy under endoscopic retrograde pancreaticocholangiopancreatography can also be considered.

Gallstones are mostly caused by genetic factors, poor eating habits, and abnormal cholesterol metabolism. Drug treatment mainly uses drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) to dissolve cholesterol stones, which is suitable for patients with small diameter and asymptomatic patients. Surgery is usually the first choice for patients with obvious symptoms or recurrent attacks. Compared with traditional open surgery, laparoscopic cholecystectomy has the advantages of less damage and faster recovery. Minimally invasive techniques such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy are suitable for some patients. The stones can be broken up by shock waves and then naturally discharged from the body. However, not all patients are suitable for non-surgical treatment. Patients need to listen to the advice of professional doctors according to their own conditions. For patients with high surgical risks, stone removal or lithotripsy under endoscopic retrograde pancreaticocholangiopancreatography can also be considered.

Dietary regulation is an effective strategy for the prevention and auxiliary treatment of gallstones. It is recommended to increase fiber intake, such as eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and reasonably control fat intake. Maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise can also help reduce the risk of gallstone formation. At the same time, maintain good living habits and drink plenty of water to promote metabolism. Be careful to avoid losing weight too quickly, because rapid weight loss can easily lead to gallstone formation. If you experience persistent right upper abdominal pain or indigestion symptoms in your daily life, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time for further diagnosis and treatment options.