What are the effects of gallstones on the body?

The effects of gallstones on the body can manifest in many ways, including indigestion, jaundice, pain, and may also lead to more serious complications such as pancreatitis or cholecystitis. Understanding these effects can help with early intervention and treatment to reduce potential risks.

1. Indigestion and bloating

Gallstones may cause obstruction of bile flow, thus affecting the normal function of the digestive system. Bile is necessary for fat digestion, and gallstones block the release of bile, which may cause indigestion and bloating. In the face of this situation, dietary adjustments and healthy lifestyle habits are important coping measures. Reducing the intake of high-fat foods and eating more fresh fruits and vegetables can help relieve these symptoms.

2. Pain and jaundice

Larger gallstones may become lodged in the bile ducts, causing severe abdominal pain that sometimes radiates to the back or right shoulder. Also, bile duct obstruction can cause bile to back up into the bloodstream, causing jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. If these symptoms occur, it is recommended to see a doctor immediately. Pain management can be done with analgesics prescribed by your doctor, or in severe cases, surgery, such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, may be required.

3. Serious complications

If gallstones are not treated promptly, they can lead to serious complications such as cholecystitis and pancreatitis. These conditions may cause fever, chills, severe abdominal pain, etc., and require urgent medical intervention. For pancreatitis, your doctor may need to perform endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to remove stones or treat bile duct obstruction. For cholecystitis, surgical removal of the gallbladder is a common treatment option.

It is important to reiterate that gallstones may cause a variety of physical effects and seek medical treatment in a timely manner. In this process, relevant diet management and lifestyle improvements also play an important role. Maintaining regular health checks can detect problems early and minimize more serious health risks. Facing such diseases bravely starts with listening to the body's signals and seeking help from specialists in a timely manner to get the best health support.