What are the symptoms of gallstones and how to treat them

Common symptoms of gallstones include abdominal pain, indigestion, and jaundice, while treatments vary depending on the condition and can include medication and surgical intervention. By understanding the symptoms and treatment options, you can better manage this common digestive disorder.

Gallstones are hardened masses formed in the gallbladder, mainly composed of cholesterol, bile pigments and calcium salts. Usually, the formation of gallstones is related to irregular or high-cholesterol diets, and may also be related to genetic factors, obesity, rapid weight loss or female hormone changes. These stones can block the bile ducts, resulting in obstruction of bile flow, which in turn causes a series of uncomfortable symptoms.

When gallstones block the bile duct, they can cause sudden, right upper abdominal pain that may spread to the back or shoulder blades. The pain often worsens after eating, and symptoms include indigestion, bloating, nausea, and vomiting. Gallstones can also cause jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, due to the inability of bilirubin to be excreted from the body. If not treated promptly, prolonged bile stasis can lead to infection or cholecystitis, increasing the risk of other complications.

In terms of symptom management, small, asymptomatic gallstones may not require special treatment and only require regular observation. However, if uncomfortable symptoms such as pain, infection, or jaundice occur, treatment should be considered. Treatment includes taking litholytic drugs to help the stones gradually dissolve, but this method is suitable for smaller cholesterol stones. For more severe or recurring stones, surgical removal of the gallbladder is a common and effective method, which is called cholecystectomy. After surgery, the human body can adapt to life without a gallbladder by adjusting the diet, and high-fat, high-cholesterol foods should be avoided. Actively controlling weight and adhering to a reasonable diet structure are effective means of preventing gallstones. If gallbladder disease is suspected, it is recommended to consult a doctor in time for professional guidance.