Gallstones are hard, tiny deposits that develop in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. Typically, the liver produces bilirubin, a chemical, or cholesterol to form them. Gallstones can vary in size from small grains to masses as large as golf balls and can develop due to factors such as slow emptying of the gallbladder, an imbalance in bile salts, or an excess of cholesterol in the bile.

While some individuals with gallstones may experience no symptoms, others may suffer from severe nausea, vomiting, or jaundice in addition to excruciating stomach discomfort. Significant gallstones can lead to complications such as gallbladder inflammation or bile duct obstruction. Following a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet low in fat and high in fiber, can reduce the likelihood of gallstone formation.

In gallstones complications like gallbladder inflammation or bile duct obstruction can occur.(Image Credit:Canva)

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Hemant Jain, a consultant laparoscopic and GI cancer surgeon at Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai, discussed gallstones, which are the tiny troublemakers in the gallbladder.

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Gallstones are hardened deposits formed within the gallbladder, composed of cholesterol or bilirubin. Abdominal pain in adults is often attributable to gallstones and can present with various symptoms. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Bile, a fluid secreted by the liver to aid in digesting dietary fat, is stored and concentrated in the gallbladder. Multiple factors can disrupt the delicate balance of bile components, leading to precipitation and gallstone formation. Factors such as gallbladder dysmotility, obesity, excessive cholesterol secretion, and bacterial infection increase the risk of gallstone formation.

What Are The Symptoms Of Gallstones?

Symptoms of gallstones typically include severe intermittent pain in the right upper quadrant, although some individuals may experience sensations such as excessive gas, acidity, bloating, or burning sensations. Complications such as jaundice or pancreatitis may manifest with symptoms such as yellowish discoloration of the eyes and urine, severe pain radiating to the back, intense itching of the skin, and fever.

Who Can Get A Diagnosis Of Gallstones?

Diagnosis of gallstones is typically made through an ultrasound examination of the abdomen, with advanced imaging modalities such as MRI or CT scans occasionally required.

A healthy lifestyle, including a low-fat, high-fiber diet, can reduce the likelihood of gallstone formation.(Image Credit:Canva)

What Are The Stages And Treatments Of Gallstones?

Treatment for symptomatic gallstones involves immediate medical attention, with laparoscopic cholecystectomy being the standard approach. Delays in treatment can lead to complications. Medications have a limited role in managing gallstones, with gallbladder surgeries such as single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy being routine and safe.

What Are The Preventive Measures For Gallstones?

Preventive measures for gallstones include gradual weight loss and a well-balanced diet without excess fat, as increased cholesterol secretion in the bile and obesity are known risk factors for gallstone formation.

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In conclusion, Dr. Hemant emphasized that gallstones have multifactorial origins and can cause mild to severe symptoms, often requiring surgical intervention, which can be performed using a single-incision laparoscopic approach.