What should the elderly with gallstones pay attention to?

Elderly people with gallstones should pay attention to dietary adjustment, actively improve their lifestyle habits, and develop appropriate treatment plans under the guidance of doctors. Gallstones can cause pain, indigestion, and even cholecystitis. Early intervention and scientific management are key.

The main causes of gallstone formation are closely related to the imbalance of bile components, gallbladder dysfunction and eating habits. For the elderly, due to the slow metabolism caused by aging, bile secretion and flow are restricted, which makes it easier to form stones. The main symptoms include paroxysmal pain in the right upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting, and difficulty digesting fatty foods. If persistent severe pain or fever occurs, it may indicate cholecystitis or bile duct obstruction, and medical attention should be sought as soon as possible. Mild patients are usually treated conservatively, such as controlling diet and taking choleretic drugs. Severe cases may require surgical treatment. The more common surgeries include laparoscopic cholecystectomy, percutaneous cholecystolithotomy, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiography. The specific choice depends on the severity of the disease and the patient's physical condition.

Elderly patients should pay special attention to a low-fat diet in their daily lives and eat more foods rich in dietary fiber, such as oats, green leafy vegetables and fruits, which can help gastrointestinal motility and reduce the burden on the gallbladder. At the same time, it is necessary to reduce the intake of high-fat, high-sugar and greasy foods, such as animal offal, fried foods, etc., to reduce the risk of cholesterol crystal deposition. Moderate exercise is also very important. Daily walks or Tai Chi can promote blood circulation and reduce the effect of bile stasis. Regular eating and rest habits should be maintained, and overeating and long-term fasting should be avoided to reduce the burden on gallbladder function.

Having gallstones is not terrible, but it requires timely attention and scientific management. Family members and patients should maintain a positive attitude and choose the appropriate treatment method with the help of doctors. By adjusting diet, exercising regularly and having regular checkups, the risk of complications can be reduced, the quality of life of the elderly can be improved, and life in old age can be healthier and more comfortable.