What are the symptoms of hepatobiliary stones?

Hepatobiliary stones are often confusing because they may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages, but symptoms may develop as the stones grow larger or move. Typical symptoms include upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and possibly jaundice. Knowing these symptoms can help with early recognition and prompt medical attention to avoid more serious complications.

1. Upper abdominal pain: This is one of the most common symptoms of hepatobiliary stones. The pain is usually located in the right upper abdomen and may spread to the back or right shoulder. Sometimes, the pain worsens after eating, especially after eating high-fat foods. The nature of the pain may be continuous or paroxysmal.

2. Indigestion and discomfort: Hepatobiliary stones may cause digestive system dysfunction, manifested as bloating, nausea and vomiting. These symptoms may become more obvious after eating, especially after eating greasy food.

3. Jaundice: If stones block the bile duct and bile cannot be discharged normally, it may cause jaundice. The manifestation of jaundice is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, and the urine becomes darker. This situation requires immediate medical attention because it may cause more serious health problems.

4. Fever and chills: In some cases, liver and gallstones may cause infection, leading to fever and chills. This symptom is usually accompanied by severe abdominal pain and requires urgent medical intervention.

5. Other symptoms: Sometimes, patients may experience non-specific symptoms such as loss of appetite and weight loss. These symptoms may be directly related to liver and gallstones, or they may be caused by other health problems.

Early recognition of the symptoms of hepatobiliary stones is crucial to preventing complications. If the above symptoms occur, it is recommended to see a doctor as soon as possible and undergo relevant tests to confirm the diagnosis. The doctor may recommend imaging tests (such as ultrasound, CT scan) to determine the presence and location of stones. Treatment options may include medication, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, or surgery, and the specific plan should be determined according to the patient's specific situation. Maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding a high-fat diet can also help prevent the formation of hepatobiliary stones.