What are the causes of gallstones?

The causes of gallstones mainly include heredity, environment and one's own physiological characteristics, but the specific formation is often the result of multiple factors. A full understanding of these factors will help us take more effective prevention and treatment measures.

From a genetic point of view, if someone in the family suffers from gallstones, their offspring will usually have a higher risk of developing gallstones, which may be related to genetic defects in bile metabolism. Among environmental factors, dietary habits play an important role. For example, a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet will increase the risk of cholesterol stones, and a long-term unhealthy lifestyle, such as sitting for a long time and obesity, will also increase the risk of disease. In terms of one's own physiological characteristics, hormones also have a significant effect on the formation of gallstones, especially during pregnancy. Increased estrogen levels in women will increase cholesterol concentrations, leading to stone formation. With age, the reduced contraction function of the gallbladder will also increase the risk of disease. Certain diseases are also causes of gallstones, such as diabetes, pancreatitis or pathological obesity, which will change the composition of bile and lead to stone deposition.

The prevention and treatment of gallstones requires a variety of strategies for different causes. In terms of diet, it is recommended to choose low-fat, low-cholesterol, high-fiber foods, such as oats, whole grains, vegetables, etc., while maintaining moderate exercise to control weight. Ursodeoxycholic acid is often used for drug treatment. This drug can dissolve cholesterol stones, but it needs to be taken for a long time and is suitable for small stones. Surgical treatment, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, is a common and effective method for patients with severe symptoms or recurrent pain. For asymptomatic small stones, close observation is generally adopted to avoid unnecessary surgical risks. With the perspective of humanistic care, we remind everyone to pay attention to regular physical examinations, and take appropriate treatments when gallstones are discovered early, which can improve the quality of life. Timely adjustment of unhealthy diet and lifestyle is not only to prevent disease, but also to be healthier and happier every day.