Do gallstones need to be removed?

Gallstones do not always need to be removed. The decision to have surgery depends on your specific symptoms and health. If gallstones do not cause any symptoms, called "asymptomatic gallstones," they usually do not need to be removed right away. Doctors will only recommend a cholecystectomy if you have severe pain, cholecystitis, or other complications.

The causes of gallstone formation may be related to a variety of factors, including genetic factors, eating habits, and changes in bile composition. Genetic factors may increase the risk of gallstones, while high-fat, low-fiber foods in the diet may promote the formation of cholesterol stones. Physiologically, certain diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and liver disease may increase the risk of gallstones. Symptoms vary from person to person. Some patients have no symptoms at all, while others may experience right upper abdominal pain, jaundice, and indigestion. If the stones cause complications such as cholecystitis, the patient may experience fever, chills, and severe pain, and emergency treatment is required in severe cases.

There are many ways to treat gallstones, depending on the severity of your symptoms. Medical options include oral bile acid medications to help dissolve cholesterol stones, but these may take months or longer to work. For recurrent severe symptoms, laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a common surgical procedure that is relatively minimally invasive and has a quick recovery. Open cholecystectomy is reserved for complex cases or when abdominal surgery is difficult. If surgery is not an option, your doctor may recommend extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) to break up smaller stones. Lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake and controlling weight may also help reduce your risk of stone formation.

A healthy lifestyle is important for gallbladder health. Increasing the fiber content in your daily diet and reducing the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods can prevent gallstones to a certain extent. At the same time, regular medical examinations can help detect potential health problems early. If gallstones cause severe pain or complications, you should seek medical attention and expert advice in time to take appropriate treatment measures. Whether or not you choose surgery, it is important to pay attention to your health and maintain positive health habits. Your doctor will provide professional advice based on your specific situation so that you can make the best health decision for you.