What are gallstones formed of?

Gallstones are mainly composed of cholesterol, bile pigments and calcium salts, which are formed under the influence of various factors inside and outside the human body. From a genetic point of view, family history plays an important role in the formation of gallstones. If someone in the family suffers from gallstones, the risk of the next generation will also increase. Environmental factors also play a role that cannot be ignored, especially changes in eating habits. A high-fat, high-cholesterol and low-fiber diet will increase cholesterol concentrations and promote the formation of stones. Improper weight loss dieting may also lead to bile stasis and increase the probability of gallstones. Among physiological factors, diseases such as obesity, diabetes and cirrhosis can affect the composition of bile, leading to stone formation.

The symptoms of gallstones vary, ranging from mild to severe. In mild cases, patients may only feel bloating or indigestion, but when the stones cause bile duct obstruction, it can cause symptoms such as severe right upper abdominal pain, nausea, and even jaundice. Prompt medical treatment is key to avoiding complications. For patients who have been diagnosed, surgical removal of the gallbladder is one of the most direct and effective treatments, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Medical lithotripsy is also an option, by taking ursodeoxycholic acid to dissolve gallstones, but this method is slow and only suitable for smaller cholesterol stones. For patients who are not suitable for surgery, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy can be used as a non-invasive method to crush the stones.

The symptoms of gallstones vary, ranging from mild to severe. In mild cases, patients may only feel bloating or indigestion, but when the stones cause bile duct obstruction, it can cause symptoms such as severe right upper abdominal pain, nausea, and even jaundice. Prompt medical treatment is key to avoiding complications. For patients who have been diagnosed, surgical removal of the gallbladder is one of the most direct and effective treatments, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Medical lithotripsy is also an option, by taking ursodeoxycholic acid to dissolve gallstones, but this method is slow and only suitable for smaller cholesterol stones. For patients who are not suitable for surgery, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy can be used as a non-invasive method to crush the stones.

In daily life, paying attention to the dietary structure is an effective way to prevent gallstones. Ensuring adequate daily fiber intake and reducing the intake of high-fat foods can help maintain normal bile secretion. Maintaining regular exercise not only helps control weight, but also promotes the flow of bile and reduces the risk of stone formation. For those who need to lose weight, they should avoid too fast or unscientific weight loss methods to avoid increasing the burden on the gallbladder. In life, we must learn to pay attention to changes in the body, especially when abdominal discomfort occurs, we should consult a doctor in time for early diagnosis and treatment. This can not only effectively relieve symptoms, but also minimize the risk of complications. In life, we need to stay concerned and vigilant, but we don’t have to be overly anxious about it. A healthy lifestyle is always a good basis for prevention.