What are the causes of gallstones?

The factors that cause gallstones include genetic factors, environmental factors (eating habits, etc.), physiological factors (abnormal bile metabolism), trauma and other diseases (cholecystitis, etc.). Understanding these causes can help us better prevent and deal with gallstone problems.

1. Genetic factors

If multiple people in your family have gallstones, you may have a genetic predisposition. This is because genetics may affect the metabolism of bile components, leading to oversaturation of cholesterol or abnormal gallbladder motility. For people with a family history, it is even more important to pay attention to regular physical examinations and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

2. Environmental factors

Dietary habits play an important role in the formation of gallstones. A high-fat, high-sugar, low-fiber diet may promote the precipitation of cholesterol in bile and increase the chance of stone formation. For example, frequent intake of fried foods, desserts, or a lack of fiber-rich vegetables and fruits will increase the risk. It is recommended to add high-fiber foods (such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits) to the daily diet and reduce the intake of red meat and greasy foods. In addition, obesity is closely related to the risk of gallstones, so weight control is also very important.

3. Physiological factors

Abnormal bile metabolism is one of the core causes of gallstone formation, especially when cholesterol concentration is too high or bile flow is poor. For example, weakened gallbladder function can lead to bile retention, which then precipitates and forms stones. Some women are more likely to have gallstone problems because of their relatively high estrogen levels (such as during pregnancy or taking birth control pills), which increases cholesterol secretion. Moderate exercise can help improve gallbladder activity and reduce the risk of bile retention.

4. Trauma and pathological factors

The formation of gallstones may also be related to trauma to the gallbladder, long-term inflammation (such as chronic cholecystitis) or other underlying diseases (such as diabetes). These conditions may interfere with the normal function of the gallbladder and increase the risk of gallstones. If there is a relevant medical history, the primary disease should be actively treated to avoid delaying the condition.

Treatment and prevention advice

If gallstones have been diagnosed, mild symptoms can be alleviated by adjusting lifestyle habits, such as increasing dietary fiber intake, eating less greasy food, and exercising regularly. If symptoms are more severe, common medical treatments include:

1. Drug litholysis: Suitable for patients with small cholesterol stones, who can take drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid.

2. Minimally invasive surgery: For example, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the main method for treating symptomatic gallstones, with quick recovery and less trauma.

3. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy: Breaking up stones through external force, suitable for some special types of patients.

Gallstones are affected by many factors, but through a healthy diet, regular exercise and regular physical examinations, the formation of gallstones can be largely prevented. Once you find that you have gallstones or related symptoms, you should seek medical attention in time to avoid worsening of the condition.