How to detect gallstones

Medical examinations are essential to confirm the diagnosis of gallstones. It is difficult to fully determine whether you have gallstones based on symptoms alone, because many symptoms of indigestion or abdominal pain are similar to those of gallstones.

Gallstones are a common gallbladder disease, and their cause is mainly related to the cholesterol and bile pigment content in bile. If there are too many of these two components in the bile, it is easy to form stones. Even a healthy gallbladder can sometimes form small stones due to temporary changes in these components in the bile, which explains why many people accidentally find gallstones during physical examinations.

To confirm the diagnosis of gallstones, an ultrasound is usually done. This is like the doctor using a "belly dozer" to scan your abdomen. Ultrasound is a noninvasive test that is effective in finding stones in the liver, gallbladder, and surrounding tissues. Sometimes, the doctor may also use other imaging tests, such as CT or MRI, to get more detailed information in certain cases. Usually, the doctor will decide whether a person needs these tests based on the specific situation.

In daily life, maintaining good eating habits is the key to preventing the formation of gallstones. Reducing the intake of high-cholesterol and high-fat foods and eating more fiber-rich foods can help maintain the normal flow of bile and reduce the chance of stone formation. If similar symptoms are found during physical examinations or in daily life, it is recommended to consult a professional doctor in time.