What causes gallstones?

The causes of gallstones mainly include genetic factors, environmental factors and physiological factors. From a genetic point of view, if there is a history of gallstones in the family, the individual's chance of developing gallstones will increase. Environmental factors, such as unhealthy diet, high-fat diet and lack of exercise will increase the risk of gallstones. Excessive intake of high-fat foods will lead to increased cholesterol, which will form crystals in the gallbladder. Physiological factors such as obesity, rapid weight loss, pregnancy, etc. will affect the composition of bile and increase the possibility of gallstones. Certain diseases such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia and cirrhosis are also closely related to the occurrence of gallstones.

There are many ways to treat gallstones, and medical intervention is required in severe cases. Surgical treatments such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, open cholecystectomy, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are usually suitable for patients with severe symptoms or complications. Drug treatment can try to dissolve gallstones and reduce cholesterol crystals by taking ursodeoxycholic acid. However, this treatment often takes a long time and has limited effects. For some patients, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy can be used to break up smaller stones and help expel them. Lifestyle adjustments, such as controlling weight, increasing fiber intake, and maintaining regular exercise, are also important supportive treatments. In terms of diet, it is recommended to avoid excessive intake of animal fat, increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, and maintain a balanced nutrition.

There are many ways to treat gallstones, and medical intervention is required in severe cases. Surgical treatments such as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, open cholecystectomy, and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) are usually suitable for patients with severe symptoms or complications. Drug treatment can try to dissolve gallstones and reduce cholesterol crystals by taking ursodeoxycholic acid. However, this treatment often takes a long time and has limited effects. For some patients, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy can be used to break up smaller stones and help expel them. Lifestyle adjustments, such as controlling weight, increasing fiber intake, and maintaining regular exercise, are also important supportive treatments. In terms of diet, it is recommended to avoid excessive intake of animal fat, increase the intake of fruits and vegetables, and maintain a balanced nutrition.

When facing the problem of gallstones, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can effectively prevent and reduce its occurrence. If you experience severe abdominal pain, especially pain on the right side of the upper abdomen, jaundice or high fever, you need to seek medical attention in time. Psychologically, you should adjust your mentality, avoid tension and stress, increase social support and appropriate leisure, and improve the overall quality of life. It is particularly important to pay attention to changes in your own health and have regular physical examinations. By understanding the causes of gallstones and actively taking preventive and treatment measures, we can better manage and prevent the health problems caused by gallstones.