What is Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)?
Gallstones, medically known as cholelithiasis, are solid particles that form in the gallbladder—a small organ located beneath the liver.
These stones can vary in size and are typically composed of cholesterol, bile pigments, and calcium salts. Gallstones can develop when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver.
Side Effects of Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)
Gallstones can lead to a range of symptoms and complications, including:
- Abdominal Pain: Often felt in the upper right abdomen, the pain can be sharp or cramp-like and may radiate to the back or shoulder.
- Nausea and Vomiting: This can occur, particularly after eating fatty foods.
- Indigestion: Feeling of fullness, bloating, or discomfort after meals.
- Jaundice: A yellowing of the skin or eyes, which indicates that the gallstones may be blocking the bile ducts.
- Fever and Chills: These symptoms may suggest an infection in the gallbladder or bile ducts.
In some cases, gallstones may be asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause noticeable symptoms and are discovered incidentally during medical imaging for other issues.
How is Gallstones (Cholelithiasis) Diagnosed?
Diagnosing gallstones typically involves several diagnostic tools and procedures:
- Ultrasound: This is the most common and effective method for detecting gallstones. It uses sound waves to create images of the gallbladder and identify stones.
- CT Scan: A computed tomography scan can provide detailed images of the gallbladder and detect any complications associated with gallstones.
- MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging might be used to get a clearer view of the bile ducts and gallbladder.
- Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure involves inserting a flexible tube through the mouth and into the bile ducts to identify and potentially remove stones.
- Blood Tests: These can help identify any underlying infections or inflammation related to gallstones.
Potential Treatment of Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)
Treatment for gallstones varies based on symptoms and complications:
- Medication: Oral bile acids may be prescribed to dissolve certain types of gallstones, though this method is less commonly used and may take months or years to be effective.
- Surgery: The most common treatment for symptomatic gallstones is cholecystectomy, the surgical removal of the gallbladder. This can be done laparoscopically (minimally invasive) or through open surgery, depending on the case.
- Non-Surgical Procedures: In some cases, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) can be used to break up gallstones, although this is less common and generally reserved for specific situations.
- Lifestyle and Dietary Changes: For those with asymptomatic gallstones, doctors may recommend dietary modifications, such as reducing fatty foods, to prevent symptoms.
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