Gallstone

What is a Gallstone?

A gallstone is a solid deposit that forms in the gallbladder, ranging in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. These deposits develop when substances in bile, primarily cholesterol and bilirubin, crystallize and form solid masses.

Types of Gallstones

• Cholesterol stones: Yellow-green in color, composed mainly of hardened cholesterol

• Pigment stones: Dark brown or black, made primarily of bilirubin

• Mixed stones: Combination of cholesterol and pigment materials

Risk Factors

• Age over 40

• Female gender

• Obesity

• High-fat, low-fiber diet

• Rapid weight loss

• Family history

• Certain medications, including hormone therapy

Common Symptoms

• Sudden, intense abdominal pain (biliary colic)

• Pain in the upper right abdomen

• Back pain between shoulder blades

• Nausea and vomiting

• Indigestion

• Jaundice (in severe cases)

Diagnosis Methods

• Ultrasound imaging

• CT scans

• Blood tests

• HIDA scan (cholescintigraphy)

Treatment Options

1. Surgical removal (cholecystectomy)

• Laparoscopic surgery

• Open surgery

2. Non-surgical treatments

• Oral dissolution medications

• Dietary modifications

• Pain management

Prevention Strategies

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Eating a balanced diet low in saturated fats

• Regular exercise

• Avoiding rapid weight loss

• Staying hydrated