What to do if you have gallstones?

After suffering from gallstones, it is necessary to promptly assess the severity of the disease and choose appropriate treatment methods according to the specific situation, such as drug lithotripsy, minimally invasive surgery or traditional surgical treatment. At the same time, pay attention to dietary adjustments in daily life to prevent recurrence.

Gallstones are a common digestive problem, with the main symptoms including severe pain in the right upper abdomen, nausea and vomiting, indigestion, and jaundice. If the stones are small and without obvious symptoms, medication can usually be used, such as taking ursodeoxycholic acid orally to help dissolve the gallstones. This should be taken long-term under the guidance of a doctor, and the course of treatment is usually several months to a year. If gallstones cause recurrent biliary colic, infection, or jaundice, surgical treatment should be considered. The most commonly used method is laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is a minimally invasive surgery with less trauma and faster recovery. For patients with larger stones or severe complications, traditional open surgery may be required to remove the gallbladder. If the patient is not suitable for surgery due to health reasons, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) can be used to remove the stones, which is suitable for larger cases that are not suitable for surgery.

In order to avoid the recurrence of gallstones, it is important to control the diet structure in daily life, reduce the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, and eat more vegetables and fruits rich in dietary fiber. At the same time, regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight and improve the metabolic balance of bile. It is also very important to develop regular three-meal eating habits and maintain a good work and rest schedule. If you experience recurring abdominal pain or other symptoms suspected of gallstones, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to make a clear diagnosis. With the help of a doctor and scientific lifestyle adjustments, gallstones can be well controlled.