Is surgery still needed after gallstone symptoms are relieved?

Once gallstone symptoms have resolved, surgery may not always be necessary immediately. Many people may experience abdominal pain or indigestion when symptoms flare up, but these symptoms may also ease or go away. This can make you think the problem is solved, but in fact, the gallstones may still be there and just not be causing significant discomfort.

Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder or bile duct. They can be caused by abnormalities in the composition of bile, decreased gallbladder motility, and other factors such as infection and genetics. Some people may have no symptoms throughout their lives, known as "silent gallstones," while others may develop acute symptoms such as pain, fever, or jaundice when stones block the bile duct.

Even if symptoms are relieved, gallstones may still cause future health problems. For example, gallstones may cause another painful attack within a short period of time or may lead to more serious conditions such as cholecystitis, cholangitis, and pancreatitis. Usually, if the stones are small and there are no signs of infection, non-surgical observation can be used. In some cases, your doctor may recommend medical treatment, such as stone dissolution with drugs, but this process is longer and only applies to certain types of gallstones. However, when complications occur, the stones are large, or painful attacks are frequent, surgical stone removal may be a better option.

To better manage gallstones, patients need to consider lifestyle adjustments, such as healthy eating and regular exercise to reduce the risk of gallstone recurrence. It is wise to consult a doctor immediately when any discomfort or symptoms occur. The doctor may arrange regular ultrasound examinations to monitor changes in the stones and provide patients with personalized treatment recommendations. If symptoms recur or there are concerns about potential health problems, it is recommended to seek medical attention in time for professional evaluation and guidance. This prudent attitude can help prevent possible serious complications, improve quality of life, and reduce the psychological burden on patients.