What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are small, hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder or bile ducts. They range from a grain of sand to a golf ball and can block bile flow, causing complications.
Causes:
High Cholesterol in Bile: Excess cholesterol in bile can harden and form stones.
Rapid Weight Loss: Quick weight loss increases bile cholesterol, leading to stone formation.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase gallstone risk.
Excess Bilirubin: Overproduction of bilirubin or inadequate bile duct disposal can form stones.
Genetics: Family history can raise the likelihood of developing gallstones.
What are the Symptoms of Gallstones?
Many people with gallstones do not experience any symptoms and may not even know they have them. However, when a gallstone blocks the bile duct, it can cause severe pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, known as biliary colic.
Other symptoms of gallstones may include:
Nausea and vomiting
Fever and chills if there is an infection in the gallbladder
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
Clay-coloured stools and dark urine
Bloating and gas
How Can Gallstones Be Treated?
Treatment options for gallstones include surgical removal of the gallbladder, medications to dissolve stones, or shock wave therapy to break them into smaller pieces for easier passage.
How to Relieve Gallstones?
Maintain Healthy Weight
Avoid rapid weight loss; manage weight through diet and exercise to lower gallstone risk.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and reduce stone formation.
Balanced Diet
Eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; avoid high-fat diets to prevent cholesterol buildup in bile.
Exercise Regularly
Regular physical activity aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight, reducing gallstone risk.