Gallbladder Stones: Understanding the Condition

Gallbladder Stones: Understanding the Condition

Gallbladder stones, or gallstones, are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver. They can vary in size and may cause severe pain or complications if they block bile ducts.

Causes

  • Excess cholesterol in bile
  • Excess bilirubin
  • Incomplete emptying of the gallbladder

Symptoms

  • Severe abdominal pain (biliary colic)
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Jaundice
  • Indigestion

Diagnosis

  • Ultrasound
  • CT scan
  • Blood tests

Treatment

  • Medication to dissolve stones
  • Surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy)
  • Endoscopic procedures (ERCP)

Risk Factors

  • Obesity
  • Rapid weight loss
  • Pregnancy
  • Family history

Managing Gallbladder Stones

Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications like infection or pancreatitis. Surgical removal is a common and effective solution.