Who is prone to gallstones?

The high-risk groups for gallstones mainly include obese people, middle-aged and elderly people, women, and people who have long-term improper diet. Because its causes are complex and closely related to genetics, environment, and lifestyle, developing healthy living habits is crucial for prevention.

Gallstones are a disease caused by abnormal deposition of components in the bile in the gallbladder. Genetic factors are one of them. People with a family history of gallstones have a higher risk of the disease than other people. Women have higher estrogen levels, which can lead to increased cholesterol excretion and the formation of stones. Estrogen is enhanced during pregnancy, which makes the disease more likely. The proportion of cholesterol in the bile of obese people increases, increasing the risk of stone formation. People who eat too greasy food or like high-fat foods will affect bile metabolism and induce gallstones. Certain chronic diseases such as diabetes can also increase the possibility of disease. People who sit for a long time or lose weight quickly are also prone to gallstone problems due to slower bile flow.

To prevent gallstones, we should focus on a reasonable diet and healthy lifestyle, maintain a regular three meals a day, eat more vegetables and fruits rich in dietary fiber, and avoid high-fat, high-cholesterol foods. Moderate exercise can promote bile excretion and reduce the probability of stones. If women need to take birth control pills, they should discuss with their doctors whether it will increase the risk of gallstones. For confirmed patients, those with mild asymptomatic symptoms can be followed up regularly, and litholytic drugs (such as chenodeoxycholic acid) can be used when necessary. When symptoms are severe, such as abdominal pain or inflammation, laparoscopic cholecystectomy and other surgeries are required for treatment. Active attention to health examinations can help early detection and early intervention.

Disease prevention is inseparable from daily self-care. Balanced nutrition and regular exercise are long-term ways to reduce the risk of gallstones. If typical symptoms such as right upper abdominal pain occur, you should see a doctor as soon as possible. Health requires careful management. Compared with treatment, prevention can add more ease and happiness to life.