Does gallbladder stone require surgery?

Whether or not gallstones require surgery depends on the severity of symptoms and the patient's specific circumstances. In some cases, gallstones may not cause significant symptoms, so immediate surgical intervention may not be necessary. However, if the stones cause severe pain, infection, or other complications, such as cholecystitis or pancreatitis, surgery is usually necessary.

Generally, if gallstones cause severe abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, the doctor may recommend surgery, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is a minimally invasive surgery with the advantages of less trauma and faster recovery. For cases with serious complications, open surgery may be more suitable. For some patients who are not suitable for surgery, drug therapy such as oral bile acids can be used to dissolve stones, or non-invasive treatment can be attempted through extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy. However, these methods are suitable for a limited number of patients and require a longer time to observe the efficacy.

For asymptomatic gallstones, a wait-and-see strategy is usually feasible, but this does not mean that it can be taken lightly. Lifestyle adjustments play an important role in preventing stone formation or reducing the onset of stone symptoms. Maintaining a balanced diet, consuming more fiber-rich foods, and reducing excessive greasy and high cholesterol intake can help reduce the risk of recurrence of gallstones. Increasing the intake of whole grains, vegetables and fruits in dietary planning can be considered. Maintaining a healthy body mass index by controlling weight is also an effective prevention strategy. Moderate exercise, such as brisk walking or swimming several times a week, can also help improve overall health.

Even if you don't need immediate surgery, it's important to check your gallbladder health regularly, often including ultrasounds, to detect potential problems. When it comes to gallstones, paying attention to your body's signals, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and getting regular follow-up visits can help prevent your condition from getting worse. If symptoms persist or get worse, be sure to seek professional medical advice. Caring for your body and taking scientific and reasonable care measures are important steps to maintaining your health.