Gallstones, Gallbladder Stones — Symptoms, Causes, Types, Complications and Prevention

Gallbladder stones are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ that sits below the liver and stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fats. Gallstones can be made of cholesterol, bilirubin, or a combination of both.

What are the symptoms of gallbladder stones?

Not everyone with gallbladder stones has symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Upper right abdominal pain, often after eating fatty foods
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever and chills
• Pain in the back or shoulder
• Indigestion
• Bloating
• Gas

What are the causes of gallbladder stones?

The exact cause of gallbladder stones is unknown. However, there are certain factors that can increase your risk of developing them, such as:

• Obesity
• Rapid weight loss
• Family history of gallbladder stones
• Certain medications, such as birth control pills
• Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes and liver disease

How are gallbladder stones diagnosed?

Your doctor can diagnose gallbladder stones by doing a physical exam and asking about your symptoms. They may also order one or more of the following tests:

• Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of the gallbladder and bile ducts.
• CT scan: This test uses X-rays to create detailed images of the inside of your body.
• MRI: This test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body.

How are gallbladder stones treated?

The best treatment for gallbladder stones depends on the size and number of stones, your symptoms, and your overall health.

• Non-surgical treatment: In some cases, your doctor may recommend non-surgical treatments, such as:
• Medications to dissolve the stones. However, these medications are not always effective and can have side effects.
• Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL): This procedure uses sound waves to break up the stones into smaller pieces that can pass through the bile ducts.
• Surgical treatment: If your symptoms are severe or if your stones are large, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the gallbladder. There are two main types of surgery for gallbladder removal:
• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: This minimally invasive surgery is performed through small incisions in the abdomen.
• Open cholecystectomy: This more traditional surgery requires a larger incision in the abdomen.

Aftercare

After surgery, you will need to stay in the hospital for a few days. You will also need to follow your doctor’s instructions for taking care of yourself at home. This may include eating a bland diet and avoiding strenuous activity.

Prevention

There is no sure way to prevent gallbladder stones. However, there are some things you can do to reduce your risk, such as:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Eating a healthy diet
• Avoiding rapid weight loss
• If you are taking medications that increase your risk of gallstones, talk to your doctor about other options.

If you have any of the symptoms of gallbladder stones, it is important to see a doctor right away. With prompt diagnosis and treatment, you can get relief from your symptoms and prevent complications.