How to treat gallstones in an 84-year-old

An 84-year-old man with gallstones can be treated with medication, surgery, and lifestyle adjustments. The specific choice depends on the patient's symptoms, stone size, and physical condition. When symptoms are mild, conservative treatment is often used; if symptoms are severe or complications occur, surgical intervention should be considered.

Gallstones are stone deposits caused by an imbalance in cholesterol or bile salt metabolism in the gallbladder, and are often related to aging, metabolic abnormalities, and dietary structure. For elderly patients, if there are no obvious symptoms, taking ursodeoxycholic acid litholytic drugs can help reduce gallstones, but it must be used under the guidance of a doctor. Those with obvious symptoms, especially those with recurrent abdominal pain and cholecystitis, may require surgical treatment. Minimally invasive surgeries such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy have less trauma and faster recovery, and are suitable for most elderly people; for those who are weak and cannot tolerate surgery, percutaneous gallbladder puncture drainage or other non-surgical methods can also be considered. After surgery or during drug treatment, you can strengthen dietary management, avoid high-cholesterol and high-fat foods, and consume more dietary fiber, such as whole grains and green leafy vegetables.

Gallstones are stone deposits caused by an imbalance in cholesterol or bile salt metabolism in the gallbladder, and are often related to aging, metabolic abnormalities, and dietary structure. For elderly patients, if there are no obvious symptoms, taking ursodeoxycholic acid litholytic drugs can help reduce gallstones, but it must be used under the guidance of a doctor. Those with obvious symptoms, especially those with recurrent abdominal pain and cholecystitis, may require surgical treatment. Minimally invasive surgeries such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy have less trauma and faster recovery, and are suitable for most elderly people; for those who are weak and cannot tolerate surgery, percutaneous gallbladder puncture drainage or other non-surgical methods can also be considered. After surgery or during drug treatment, you can strengthen dietary management, avoid high-cholesterol and high-fat foods, and consume more dietary fiber, such as whole grains and green leafy vegetables.

Regardless of the treatment method used, the elderly and their families need to pay close attention to postoperative recovery or treatment effects. If the patient has persistent abdominal pain or jaundice, he or she should seek medical attention in time. Pay attention to regular health checks to prevent recurrence of stones. Maintaining a good attitude and exercising moderately can also help improve the quality of life.