Understand Gallstones: Treatment and prevention, causes, and treatment
Gallstones, which are pebble-like, small substances, form in the gallbladder (an organ below the liver). The stones are formed when substances in bile, such as cholesterol, the pigment bilirubin and salts of bile, crystallize. Gallstones vary in colour from light yellow or brown to black, depending on the composition. Gallstones can be large or small. Some people only have one, while others have many. Gallstones may cause severe complications, including infection, inflammation and blockage in the bile ducts. The article takes a closer look at the causes of gallstones and discusses treatment options. It also provides preventive methods.
What are Gallstones?
Gallstones, or hardened deposits, form within the gallbladder. This small organ stores the bile that is produced by the liver. The American Gastroenterological Association estimates that approximately 2 0,000,000 Americans suffer from gallstones. Many people who have gallstones don't experience any symptoms, and they may even not know that they are affected until complications like pancreatitis or gallbladder irritation occur.
Gallstones are divided into two types: pigment and cholesterol stones. About 80% of gallstones are cholesterol stones. They form when liver excretes too much cholesterol for the bile to dissolve. The pigment stones form when the bile contains too much bilirubin, which is often caused by certain conditions such as cirrhosis and blood disorders.
Gallstones: Common Causes
An imbalance of the substances in bile can cause gallstones. This imbalance can be caused by:
- Bile cholesterol excess
- Bilirubin excess in the bile
- Gallbladder emptying is incomplete and not done often enough
Other risk factors include being female, overweight, pregnant and having a history of gallstones in the family. Some medications can increase your risk, including some birth control pills or drugs that lower cholesterol.
Gallstones Treatment Options
The treatment for gallstones is dependent on whether or not they are causing any symptoms. Asymptomatic gallstones may not require treatment. If gallstones cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, there are several treatment options.
- The most common way to treat gallstones is by removing the gallbladder.
- In rare situations, when surgery is not an option, medications are prescribed to dissolve the gallstones.
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure is used to remove gallstones that have passed into the bile duct.
According to the American College of Gastroenterology, 90% of gallbladder surgery patients experience some relief of their symptoms.
Prevention and Natural Remedies
Although medical treatment is necessary for gallstones to be treated, lifestyle modifications can prevent them from forming. They include:
- Obesity can be a risk factor in gallstones. Slowly lose weight if you must, as rapid weight loss may also cause gallstones.
- A balanced diet is important: Diets that are high in cholesterol, fats and fibers can lead to gallstones. Incorporate plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables into your diet.
- Regular exercise: Physical activity helps to maintain normal cholesterol and a healthy body weight, both of which are important in preventing gallstones.
Gallstones can be a serious health problem if they are not treated. It is important to understand the causes of gallstones and know what treatment options are available. A healthy lifestyle is not only beneficial for preventing gallstones, but it also improves your overall health.
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