Got Gallstones Answers to Your Top 5 Questions
Gallbladder stones are hard deposits. Here are the answers to seven frequently asked questions about this common condition:
1. What causes gallstones?
Gallstones are formed in the presence of an excessive amount of cholesterol and an inadequate amount of bile salts. The gallbladder is the organ that stores bile, which is a digestive fluid that is produced in the liver. Bile salts help break up cholesterol into tiny droplets. The cholesterol can harden into gallstones if there aren't enough bile salts.To get the best treatment look for a gallbladder stone doctor in Agra.
2. What are the symptoms of gallstones?
Many people have no symptoms, and gallstones are found incidentally during tests for other conditions. When symptoms do manifest themselves, the following are the most prevalent ones:
- Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen below the ribs. The pain often starts several hours after eating greasy or fatty foods.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Bloating
- Indigestion
3. How are gallstones diagnosed?
Gallstones are often detected during an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI of the abdomen. These imaging tests use sound waves or X-rays to create pictures of the gallbladder and surrounding organs. A blood test to check liver function may also be ordered. In some cases, an endoscopic ultrasound is done to get a closer view of the gallbladder.
4. Do gallstones always require treatment?
Only sometimes. Treatment is usually unnecessary for symptom-free gallstones. Your best gallbladder stone doctor in Agra will monitor them over time with periodic ultrasounds. Treatment may be recommended if symptoms develop or if complications like inflammation of the gallbladder occur.
5. What are the treatment options for gallstones?
The most common treatments for gallstones are:
- Gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy). This is usually done laparoscopically with tiny incisions.
- Medicines (oral dissolution therapy) to help dissolve gallstones. This only works for small cholesterol stones and can take months to years of treatment.
- Lithotripsy breaks stones with shock waves. It is not commonly used and is less effective than surgery.
6. What happens after the gallbladder is removed?
Your gallbladder stores bile produced by the liver. Without a gallbladder, the liver still produces bile but drips directly into the small intestine. Most people have no significant digestive problems after gallbladder removal. Some experience occasional diarrhea or bloating. Dietary changes, like eating smaller meals, can help minimize symptoms.
Conclusion
Now, you can rest easy knowing what causes them, how to prevent them, and the treatment options. Visit your top gallbladder stone doctor in Agraif you have symptoms or concerns.