Gallstones
Gallstones are small, hard deposits in the gallbladder, a small pear-shaped organ under the liver. The gallbladder stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fat in the small intestine. Most gallstones do not cause symptoms, but when they do, they can cause severe pain in the upper abdomen, especially after eating a fatty meal. Other symptoms may include:
bloating
jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Gallstones are formed when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile, such as cholesterol or bilirubin. Risk factors for gallstones include age (over 60), being female, being overweight, having a family history of gallstones, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Diagnosis of gallstones may involve imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI. Treatment for gallstones depends on the severity and symptoms of the condition.
In cases where gallstones do not cause symptoms, treatment may not be necessary. In cases where symptoms are present, treatment may involve medication to dissolve the stones or surgical removal of the gallbladder. Surgery to remove the gallbladder, called a cholecystectomy, can be done through traditional open or minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.
After gallbladder removal, bile is still produced by the liver. It flows directly into the small intestine, so most people can still digest food normally without the gallbladder. It's essential to seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of gallstones, as severe cases can lead to complications such as inflammation of the gallbladder or bile ducts, infection, or blockage of the bile ducts, which can be life-threatening.