Are gallstones life-threatening if not treated promptly?

Gallstones can be life-threatening if left untreated. Gallstones are hardened particles that form in the gallbladder and can block the bile duct, leading to serious complications. While most gallstones may be asymptomatic, some may cause severe pain, infection, or jaundice, which require immediate medical attention to avoid life-threatening conditions.

Gallstones blocking the bile duct can cause acute cholecystitis, which is one of the most common complications of gallstones. Acute gallbladder inflammation can manifest as severe pain in the right upper abdomen, fever, nausea and other symptoms. If not treated promptly, the infection may spread and even cause sepsis, a systemic infection that can lead to shock and organ failure. Gallstones can also cause acute pancreatitis. Since the pancreas and bile duct are connected, gallstones blocking the bile duct can cause inflammation of the pancreas. Severe acute pancreatitis can cause pancreatic necrosis and even be life-threatening. Another serious complication is cholangitis. When gallstones block the intrahepatic bile duct, the infection can spread rapidly and cause systemic infection, which is life-threatening.

To effectively prevent the occurrence of these complications, medical intervention is essential. For gallstones with obvious symptoms, your doctor may recommend cholecystectomy, which is the most common and effective way to treat gallstones. Types of surgery include traditional open surgery and minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. For patients who are not suitable for surgery, percutaneous cholecystectomy, a method of inserting a catheter through the skin to drain bile and relieve obstruction, can be an option. In certain specific cases, medical litholysis is also an option, in which oral medications are taken to gradually dissolve gallstones. However, this method is only suitable for small cholesterol stones and patients without comorbidities.

In daily life, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can also help prevent gallstones. Eat more high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, control fat and sugar intake, and avoid obesity. Regular exercise can also help promote bile excretion and reduce the risk of gallstones.

If you have been diagnosed with gallstones and have symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, fever, jaundice, etc., please seek medical attention immediately. Timely diagnosis and effective treatment can prevent the disease from worsening and protect your health and life safety. Remember that early prevention, early detection, and early treatment are the only way to deal with the risks brought by gallstones. Continue to pay attention to your health. If you have any questions, you should consult a professional doctor to develop an appropriate medical plan.