How to treat gallstones

Treatments for gallstones include medication, surgery, and dietary changes, depending on the size of the stones, the severity of symptoms, and the patient's health. Medication usually uses ursodeoxycholic acid to dissolve cholesterol stones, surgery includes laparoscopic cholecystectomy and endoscopic retrograde pancreaticocholangiopancreatography, and dietary changes recommend a low-fat, high-fiber diet and increased water intake.

1. Drug treatment: Ursodeoxycholic acid is a commonly used drug that can dissolve cholesterol stones. It is suitable for patients with small stones and mild symptoms. Long-term use can gradually shrink the stones, but regular check-ups are required. Another drug is chenodeoxycholic acid, which also has the effect of dissolving cholesterol stones, but the effect is slower. Drug treatment usually takes months or even years, and patients need to be under the guidance of a doctor.

2. Surgical treatment: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most commonly used surgical method, with minimal trauma and quick recovery, and is suitable for most patients with gallstones. The operation is performed through several small incisions, with less postoperative pain and a shorter hospital stay. Endoscopic retrograde pancreaticocholangiopancreatography is suitable for common bile duct stones, and the stones are removed through an endoscope without the need for laparotomy. For complex cases, laparotomy may be required, but it is more invasive and takes a longer time to recover.

3. Diet adjustment: A low-fat, high-fiber diet can help reduce the concentration of cholesterol in bile and reduce the risk of stone formation. It is recommended to eat more whole grains, vegetables and fruits, and avoid high-fat, high-cholesterol foods. Increasing water intake can dilute bile and reduce the possibility of stone formation. It is recommended to drink more than 2000 ml of water per day and avoid overeating and excessive drinking.

The treatment of gallstones requires the selection of appropriate methods according to the specific conditions of the patient. Drug treatment is suitable for patients with mild symptoms, and surgical treatment is suitable for patients with severe symptoms or large stones. Diet adjustment is an important auxiliary means of prevention and treatment. Patients should receive treatment under the guidance of a doctor and undergo regular checkups to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.