Which gallstones require treatment?

Gallstones that require treatment usually include those that cause symptoms or complications, such as severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, fever, jaundice, and conditions that may cause diseases such as cholecystitis, cholangitis, or pancreatitis. Asymptomatic gallstones generally do not require immediate treatment, but regular follow-up and monitoring are required based on individual health conditions.

Gallstones are solid particles formed by bile in the gallbladder or bile ducts, and can be divided into symptomatic and asymptomatic types. Symptomatic gallstones often present as persistent or paroxysmal pain in the right upper abdomen, sometimes accompanied by radiating pain in the back or right shoulder; if the bile duct is blocked or infected, it may also cause fever, chills, and jaundice. Studies have shown that as the size of the stones increases or the course of the disease increases, the risk of complications increases, including life-threatening diseases such as cholecystitis, bile duct infection (cholangitis), and even pancreatitis. If the gallstones are large (greater than 2 cm in diameter), the gallbladder wall is significantly thickened, there are gallbladder polyps, or the patient has factors such as diabetes and low immunity, the risk is higher and early evaluation and treatment are required.

For gallstones that require treatment, common treatments include medication, surgery, and auxiliary dietary management. Medication is suitable for patients who cannot tolerate surgery. Ursodeoxycholic acid is usually used to dissolve stones, but the course of treatment is long and the effect is limited. Surgical treatment is the most common method, including minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy, percutaneous biliary catheterization and other methods. Among them, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the first choice due to its small trauma and quick recovery. If surgery is not suitable, non-surgical treatments such as extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy can be considered. Dietary management is also very important in prevention and auxiliary treatment. A high-fiber, low-fat, low-cholesterol diet can help reduce the burden on the gallbladder and avoid inducing stone symptoms.

For asymptomatic gallstones, you can adopt the strategy of "observation and follow-up" under the guidance of a doctor, but regular physical examinations and ultrasound monitoring are required. If you feel any discomfort, please seek medical attention in time. Everyone's situation is different, and the treatment plan must be determined by a professional doctor based on the specific condition. Caring for your health starts with regular physical examinations and a healthy diet to avoid the risks brought by gallstones and add a layer of protection for a healthy life.