How to distinguish between extrahepatic bile duct stones and gallbladder stones

In order to effectively distinguish extrahepatic bile duct stones from gallbladder stones, we can start with the causes and clinical manifestations of the disease. Generally speaking, extrahepatic bile duct stones are mainly caused by abnormal bile duct anatomy and cholestasis, and are mainly manifested as abdominal pain, jaundice, etc. Gallbladder stones are mainly caused by improper diet, smoking and drinking, and are mainly manifested as upper abdominal discomfort, jaundice, nausea, etc. There are four significant differences between extrahepatic bile duct stones and gallbladder stones, let's take a look.

1. Diagnostic methods. Extrahepatic bile duct stones are easily confused with colic and renal colic. To effectively identify them, three major examinations are required: percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography, endoscopic retrograde pancreatic cholangiography, and endoscopic ultrasound. The main methods for examining gallbladder stones are physical examination by a doctor, abdominal X-ray or CT examination.

2. Disease complications. Extrahepatic bile duct stones are prone to cause a variety of complications, mainly biliary liver abscess, biliary tract insufficiency, hepatobiliary cancer, acute cholangitis, etc. Complications of gallbladder stones mainly include cholecystitis, common bile duct obstruction, pancreatic duct obstruction, gallbladder cancer, etc.

3. Daily care measures. During the treatment of extrahepatic bile duct stones, patients should take care of themselves, such as eating a light diet, quitting smoking and drinking, and avoiding overeating. The care methods for gallbladder stones mainly include avoiding overeating, drinking, exercising appropriately, controlling weight, and maintaining a good mood.

4. Prevention methods. To prevent extrahepatic bile duct stones, three things need to be done, namely, regular diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and strengthening exercise. The prevention methods of gallbladder stones mainly include regular meals, avoiding long-term fasting, maintaining dietary hygiene, and controlling weight.

The main difference between extrahepatic bile duct stones and gallbladder stones is the above types. If you have a comprehensive understanding of these, you can make an accurate judgment based on your symptoms, treat the symptoms, eliminate the harm, and restore health. During the recovery process of extrahepatic bile duct stones and gallbladder stones, pay attention to regular follow-up to avoid recurrence.