Gallstone Disease
Gallstone Disease – Condition Overview
Gallstone disease is a condition in which hardened deposits called gallstones form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ that stores bile, which helps in digestion of fats.
Gallstones may remain silent or cause severe abdominal pain and complications if they block the bile ducts. Early diagnosis helps prevent serious problems.
Symptoms of Gallstone Disease
- Sudden pain in the upper right abdomen
- Pain radiating to the back or right shoulder
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bloating and indigestion
- Fever in case of infection
- Yellowing of eyes and skin (jaundice)
Causes of Gallstone Disease
- Excess cholesterol in bile
- Incomplete emptying of gallbladder
- Obesity or rapid weight loss
- Pregnancy
- Diabetes
- Family history of gallstones
Types of Gallstones
- Cholesterol stones
- Pigment stones
Diagnosis
- Ultrasound abdomen
- Blood tests
- CT scan or MRI
- MRCP or ERCP in selected cases
Treatment Options
- Pain management and supportive care
- Low-fat diet
- Medications in selected cases
- Laparoscopic gallbladder removal surgery
- Endoscopic treatment for bile duct stones
Timely treatment of gallstone disease prevents complications such as cholecystitis, pancreatitis, and bile duct obstruction.
For expert diagnosis and treatment, Contact us.