Can gallstones cause stomach pain?

Gallstones can cause stomach pain. Gallstones primarily affect the gallbladder and biliary system, but due to their complex physiological connections, they can often cause pain in the upper abdomen that may be mistaken for stomach pain. With symptoms such as bloating and indigestion, affected patients may need prompt diagnosis and treatment.

1. Causes of pain caused by gallstones:

The formation of gallstones is related to many factors such as genetics, eating habits, and body metabolism. When gallstones enter the bile duct, they can cause blockage of the bile duct and induce biliary colic. The pain usually occurs in the right upper abdomen and may spread to the shoulder or back. The pain characteristics can be similar to stomach pain, but are usually more severe. At this time, you should see a doctor as soon as possible to determine whether it is caused by gallstones.

2. Treatment methods:

Medication: For early or mild gallstone symptoms, your doctor may recommend medication to dissolve the stones, such as ursodeoxycholic acid, to help relieve symptoms. However, this medication treatment usually takes a long time and may not completely resolve the problem.

Surgical treatment: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is a common treatment method, suitable for patients with recurrent gallstones or a large number of gallstones. Surgery can effectively remove the root cause of gallstones and prevent serious complications such as cholecystitis.

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy: Suitable for patients with single and small gallstones. It uses high-energy sound waves to break up the stones, but there are certain restrictions on the type and location of the stones.

3.Diet and lifestyle adjustment:

A proper diet is important for preventing and relieving gallstones. You should reduce your intake of high-fat, high-cholesterol foods and increase your fiber intake. Eating more fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote digestive health. Moderate exercise can also help promote bile flow and reduce the risk of gallstones.

4. Adjustment of psychological factors:

Mental stress and high anxiety can affect the function of the digestive system, thereby indirectly aggravating the symptoms of abdominal discomfort. Managing emotions through yoga, meditation, etc. can help relieve pain.

If you have stomach pain symptoms suspected to be caused by gallstones, you should be vigilant and seek medical attention in a timely manner. Only through professional examinations can you make a clear diagnosis and choose the appropriate treatment plan. At the same time, a healthy lifestyle and emotional management also play an important role in the prevention and management of gallstones. In either case, understanding the body's signals and taking precautions are key points that everyone should pay attention to in their daily lives.