What are the three types of gallstones?

Gallstones are mainly divided into cholesterol stones, pigment stones and mixed stones according to their composition and causes of formation. These three types of stones differ in formation mechanism, risk factors and treatment methods. Clarifying the type of stone helps to choose the appropriate treatment, reduce the risk of complications and improve the patient's quality of life.

1. Cholesterol stones

Cholesterol gallstones are the most common type of gallstones, accounting for about 80% of all gallstones. They are mainly composed of cholesterol crystals, usually yellow or white, with a large diameter, and are mostly found in the gallbladder.

Causes:

1. The cholesterol concentration in bile is too high, exceeding its solubility, causing cholesterol to precipitate and crystallize;

2. The gallbladder contraction function is reduced, and bile is retained for a long time;

3. Excessive intake of high fat and high cholesterol in the diet.

Treatment method:

1. Drug lithotripsy: Suitable for early cholesterol stones. Ursodeoxycholic acid can be taken to help dissolve small stones.

2. Minimally invasive surgery: such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, is the first choice for the treatment of cholesterol stones;

3. Dietary adjustment: Eat less high-cholesterol foods (such as animal offal, fried foods), and eat more foods rich in dietary fiber (such as vegetables and fruits).

2. Pigment stones

Pigment stones are mainly composed of calcium bilirubin salts, dark brown or black in color, and often occur in the bile duct system. This type of stone is closely related to factors such as infection and hemolysis.

Causes:

1. Chronic bile tract infection: such as cholangitis and cholecystitis;

2. Hemolytic diseases: such as thalassemia and sickle cell anemia;

3. Bile stasis: such as cirrhosis and biliary obstruction.

Treatment method:

1. Anti-infection treatment: For pigment stones caused by bile duct infection, antibiotics are needed to control inflammation;

2. Surgery: including bile duct lithotomy or bile duct drainage;

3. Prevent infection: For high-risk groups, the health of the biliary system should be checked regularly to prevent the aggravation of biliary infection.

3. Mixed stones

Mixed stones are composed of cholesterol, bilirubin, calcium salts and other components, with a hard texture and a rough surface. This type of stone is often related to chronic gallbladder inflammation.

Causes:

1. Cholesterol and bilirubin are precipitated together;

2. Long-term chronic inflammation of the gallbladder complicates the composition of the stones;

3. Aging and changes in female hormone levels may also be risk factors.

Treatment method:

1. Surgical treatment: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the mainstream choice;

2. Preventive treatment: For example, obese patients can reduce the occurrence of stones through healthy weight loss;

3. Auxiliary treatment with traditional Chinese medicine: Some patients can try traditional Chinese medicine to improve bile secretion and regulate physical condition.

The classification of gallstones is of great significance for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Understanding the differences between cholesterol stones, pigment stones and mixed stones will help to take targeted and effective treatment measures. It is recommended to seek medical attention in time when symptoms such as abdominal pain and nausea occur to avoid serious complications. It is particularly important to prevent the occurrence of gallstones through a reasonable diet and a healthy lifestyle. Good living habits not only reduce the incidence rate, but also improve overall health.