Can gallstones be expelled?

Gallstones generally cannot be excreted naturally. Gallstones are solid particles formed by the accumulation of cholesterol, bile salts, calcium and other substances in the bile. When these particles are small and located in the bile duct, they may be excreted into the intestine, but this is not common.

The causes of gallstones are generally related to bile metabolism disorders, such as high cholesterol levels, low bile salt levels in bile, or long-term retention of bile in the gallbladder. Gallstones are usually found during ultrasound examinations and in many cases do not cause symptoms, known as "asymptomatic stones." However, in some cases, stones may cause biliary colic, infection, or other complications.

Different types of gallstones are treated differently. Small stones rarely cause symptoms, and if pain occurs, medication can be used to relieve the symptoms, and then preventive measures can be considered. However, if the stones are long-standing and cause significant discomfort, it is usually recommended to remove the gallbladder through minimally invasive or traditional surgery to completely solve the problem. Some people use dietary adjustments and drug interventions to lower cholesterol and promote the gradual elimination of small stones, but this method often needs to be done under the guidance of a doctor and is not suitable for everyone.

If you feel pain in the right upper abdomen or have symptoms such as jaundice or fever, it is recommended to go to the hospital for examination as soon as possible, because this may indicate that the gallstones have caused complications and need to be evaluated and treated by a professional doctor. Pay attention to controlling the balance of diet in daily life, reduce the intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, eat more fiber-rich foods, maintain regular eating and living habits, which can also help prevent the formation of stones.