Gallstone Disease
Gallstone disease, also known as cholelithiasis, involves the formation of solid particles (gallstones) in the gallbladder, a small organ under the liver that stores bile. Gallstones can vary in size and may block the flow of bile, causing pain and other complications. At Digestive System Healthcare, our specialists are skilled in diagnosing and treating gallstone disease to help you find relief. If you suspect you have gallstones, contact us to schedule a consultation.
What causes Gallstone Disease?
Several factors can contribute to the development of gallstone disease, including:
- Cholesterol stones: Form when there is too much cholesterol in the bile.
- Pigment stones: Form when there is excess bilirubin in the bile, often associated with liver disease or blood disorders.
- Bile stasis: When the gallbladder does not empty efficiently, bile can become concentrated and form stones.
- Obesity: Increases the risk of developing cholesterol gallstones.
- Diet: High-fat and high-cholesterol diets can increase the likelihood of gallstone formation.
- Rapid weight loss: Can cause the liver to release extra cholesterol into the bile.
- Family history: A genetic predisposition can increase the risk of gallstone disease
What are common symptoms of Gallstone Disease?
Gallstone disease may present with the following symptoms:
- Abdominal pain: Often severe and located in the upper right or center of the abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back or shoulder.
- Nausea and vomiting: Especially during a gallbladder attack.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes if a stone blocks the common bile duct.
- Indigestion: Bloating, gas, and discomfort after eating fatty foods.
- Fever and chills: May indicate a gallbladder or bile duct infection.
How is Gallstone Disease diagnosed?
Diagnosing gallstone disease typically involves:
- Medical history and physical exam: Your doctor will discuss your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical examination.
- Ultrasound: A non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the gallbladder and detect gallstones.
- CT scan: Provides detailed images of the gallbladder and surrounding organs.
- HIDA scan: A nuclear medicine test that evaluates the function of the gallbladder.
- Blood tests: Can check for signs of infection, inflammation, or jaundice.
What are the treatment options for Gallstone Disease?
Treatment for gallstone disease aims to relieve symptoms, remove gallstones, and prevent complications. Options include:
Medications:
- Bile acid pills: Help dissolve cholesterol gallstones, though this treatment can take months or years to be effective.
Procedures:
- Cholecystectomy: Surgical removal of the gallbladder, which is the most common treatment for symptomatic gallstones. This can be done laparoscopically or through open surgery.
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): A procedure to remove stones from the bile ducts.
Non-surgical approaches:
- Lithotripsy: Uses shock waves to break up stones into smaller pieces that can pass through the digestive system (less commonly used).
Managing Gallstone Disease
Effective management of gallstone disease involves:
- Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet low in fats and cholesterol and high in fiber.
- Regular exercise: Helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of gallstones.
- Avoiding rapid weight loss: Maintaining a steady, gradual weight loss if needed.
- Medication adherence: Taking any prescribed medications to manage symptoms or prevent stone