How to identify the type of gallstones

The type of gallstones you have is determined through ultrasound imaging, X-rays, and blood tests. Different types of gallstones may have different effects on your health, so it is important to accurately identify their type. Gallstones are mainly divided into cholesterol stones, pigment stones, and mixed stones. Cholesterol stones are usually yellow or green, mainly formed by cholesterol, and are the most common type of gallstones; pigment stones are black or brown and are common in patients with bile duct infections or liver disease; mixed stones are somewhere in between, containing cholesterol and pigment components.

Ultrasound imaging is the preferred method for diagnosing gallstones, which can show the size and number of gallstones. X-ray examinations may be used for further judgment in some cases, such as when pigment stones are suspected. Blood tests can help understand bilirubin and cholesterol levels, which can indirectly help identify the type of gallstones. Knowing the type of gallstones can not only guide personalized treatment, but also avoid health risks caused by misdiagnosis. If not treated in time, gallstones may cause complications such as cholecystitis and pancreatitis, which need to be given enough attention.

Ultrasound imaging is the preferred method for diagnosing gallstones, which can show the size and number of gallstones. X-ray examinations may be used for further judgment in some cases, such as when pigment stones are suspected. Blood tests can help understand bilirubin and cholesterol levels, which can indirectly help identify the type of gallstones. Knowing the type of gallstones can not only guide personalized treatment, but also avoid health risks caused by misdiagnosis. If not treated in time, gallstones may cause complications such as cholecystitis and pancreatitis, which need to be given enough attention.

If gallstones are diagnosed, treatments for different types are also different. For cholesterol stones, ursodeoxycholic acid is often used for drug treatment, which can dissolve the stones within a few months; for large stones that cannot be dissolved by drugs, laparoscopic cholecystectomy may be required. Pigment stones and mixed stones usually require surgery to completely remove the stones. Maintaining good eating habits can also help prevent stone recurrence, such as moderate fiber intake and reduced high-fat diet. When facing health problems, not only professional medical intervention is needed, but also active cooperation and improvement of patient lifestyle. The pursuit of health requires long-term persistence, and maintaining good living habits is the key to avoiding recurrence and further health problems.