Gallbladder Stones
Gallbladder Stones (Gallstones)
Gallstones form when bile becomes thick and concentrated.
Why Are Gallstones Formed?
Gallstones form when bile becomes thick and concentrated.
Reasons include:
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
- Rapid weight loss
- Diabetes
- Female gender
- Pregnancy
- Family history
- Age above 40
Common Symptoms
Symptoms of Gallbladder Stones
- Pain in right upper abdomen
- Pain after eating oily or spicy food
- Pain spreading to back or shoulder
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fever (if infection develops)
- Jaundice (rare but serious)
Some people may have stones without symptoms.
When to Get Operated?
Surgery is recommended when:
- Repeated pain attacks
- Severe abdominal pain
- Fever with pain (infection)
- Jaundice
- Pancreatitis due to stones
Once symptoms start, medicines usually do not cure stones permanently.
Surgery Options & Advantages
Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery
- 3–4 small keyhole cuts
- Camera inserted
- Laproscopic cholecystectomy
- Gallbladder removed safely
- Stones removed along with gallbladder
Important Note
Removing the gallbladder does not affect normal digestion significantly.
Most patients live a completely normal life after surgery.
Advantages
- Minimal pain
- Small scars
- Faster recovery
- Discharge usually within 1–2 days
- Early return to normal diet