What are the complications of gallstone attacks?

Gallstone attacks may lead to a variety of complications that may have a serious impact on your health. Gallstones are a common digestive system disease that usually presents as severe abdominal pain. However, if not treated promptly, gallstones may lead to complications such as cholecystitis, cholangitis, pancreatitis, and even gallbladder perforation. These problems not only increase the complexity of treatment, but may also pose a threat to your life.

1. Cholecystitis: This is one of the most common complications of gallstones. When gallstones block the gallbladder outlet, bile cannot be discharged normally, causing gallbladder inflammation. Patients usually feel severe pain in the right upper abdomen, accompanied by fever, nausea and other symptoms. For this condition, antibiotic treatment is usually required, and in severe cases, surgery may be required to remove the gallbladder.

2. Cholangitis: If gallstones fall into the bile duct and cause obstruction, cholangitis may occur. In this case, the patient may experience symptoms such as jaundice, fever, and abdominal pain. Cholangitis is a condition that requires emergency treatment, usually requiring endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) to remove the stones and relieve the obstruction.

3. Pancreatitis: Gallstones may also cause acute pancreatitis, which is caused by the stones blocking the common passage of the pancreatic duct and the bile duct, resulting in the inability of pancreatic juice to be discharged normally. Symptoms of acute pancreatitis include severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Treatment usually requires hospitalization for observation and supportive treatment, and surgical intervention may be required in severe cases.

4. Gallbladder perforation: In rare cases, gallstones may cause gallbladder perforation, which is a very serious complication. Gallbladder perforation can cause bile to leak into the abdominal cavity, causing peritonitis. Patients will experience severe abdominal pain and systemic symptoms, usually requiring emergency surgery.

When it comes to gallstones and the complications they may cause, timely medical attention and appropriate treatment are key. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and paying attention to diet and weight management can also help prevent the formation and recurrence of gallstones. For patients with gallstones, regular physical examinations and communication with doctors are important means to protect their health. I hope everyone can pay attention to these potential health risks and take timely actions to protect their health.