Gallbladder Stones: Symptoms, Risk Factors, and Prevention Tips
The gallbladder is a small organ that is situated on the right side of the abdomen. The main purpose of this organ is to store bile to digest the fat. But the gallbladder can do more harm if it does not function properly. For example, we may hear that someone in your family or friend circle suffers due to gallbladder stones. It is extremely common nowadays among people. If your loved ones are diagnosed with gallbladder stones, then contact GI doctors in OKC quickly.
What Are Gallstones?
As you know gallstones form in the gallbladder where the body stores bile. The stones look like pebbles full of bile elements. Keep in mind that bile fluid consists of bilirubin, bile salts, cholesterol, and lecithin. Generally, gallstones are made of bilirubin or cholesterol which gather at the bottom of the gallbladder.
The size of the gallstones can be as little as a grain and as big as a golf ball. The stones grow slowly because every time bile washes over them, and they collect the extra elements. We think that bigger gallbladder stones cause trouble but in reality, smaller ones are the main culprit. The reason behind this is that smaller stones can travel but the bigger ones remain in the same place.
What are the Symptoms?
In most cases, gallstones cause no symptoms. But if the stones block the bile duct, they can lead to painful symptoms. Some of these symptoms are:
Pain after eating
Tenderness in the upper right abdomen
Vomiting
Fever
Cholecystitis
Diarrhea
Chills
Itchy skin
A High temperature
A loss of appetite
Confusion
Rapid heartbeat
Sunken eyes.
Dark-colored pee.
How Common is This Problem?
According to researchers, this type of problem is found more in developed countries. As reported, it affects 10% of adults and 20% of those who are more than 65. Not everybody has gallstones and needs treatment. Only 20% of patients have to seek medical attention.
What are the Risk Factors?
Rapid weight loss
Family history of gallstones
Mexicans or Native Americans suffer more
Being pregnant
Being female
If the daily diet is full of cholesterol and low in fiber
Being over 60 years old
How Can You Diagnose This Problem?
If you experience those above-mentioned symptoms lately, then the GI doctors in OKC may recommend doing imaging such as USG, Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, ERCP and blood tests. The blood tests detect infection, inflammation, and jaundice. By examining your symptoms, the health care provider can understand which organ is affected. The doctor can remove the gallstone by doing laparoscopy, endoscopy, and open surgery.
How Can You Prevent It?
You should avoid red meat and eat more fish
Restrict fast foods and friendly ones
Eat more plants
Lose your weight slowly
Don't Take Health for Granted
Sudden pain due to gallbladder stones can be intense and scary if you don’t know about your gallbladder disease. You may get scared by hearing that surgery is the only option. But don’t be scared, contact GI doctors in OKC quickly to get treatment. To learn more about this, contact us at Digestive Disease Specialists, INC.
**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.
