Have you experienced pain on the right side of your abdomen? Find out if it could be gallstones.
The health of our gallbladder can go unnoticed until problems like gallstones appear. But what exactly are they and how do they form? In this article, we'll clearly explore everything you need to know about this condition, from its causes to the symptoms and available treatments.
What are gallstones ?
Gallstones, also known as "gallstones," are solid formations that develop inside the gallbladder. This organ, located just below the liver , plays a key role in digestion by storing and releasing bile, a fluid that helps break down fats in food.
These stones can range in size from tiny grains of sand to larger structures that can obstruct the bile ducts. Although some people experience no symptoms, others experience severe pain and serious complications.
How are gallstones formed?
The formation of gallstones in the gallbladder is associated with an imbalance in the composition of bile. Some common causes include:
1. Excess cholesterol
When bile contains more cholesterol than it can dissolve, it crystallizes and forms stones. This is one of the most common factors in stone formation.
2. High levels of bilirubin
Bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown, can accumulate due to liver disease or bile duct infections, causing the formation of pigment stones.
3. Insufficient bile flow
If the gallbladder is not completely emptied, the remaining bile may become more concentrated, promoting the formation of stones.
Risk factors
There are certain factors that can increase the risk of developing gallstones. Some of the most common are:
- Gender: Women are more prone due to estrogen levels, which can increase the amount of cholesterol in bile.
- Age: As we age, the risk also increases.
- Diet high in fat and sugar: Ultra-processed foods can contribute to bile imbalance.
- Overweight or rapid weight loss: Both extremes can affect the composition of bile.
- Family history: A family history of gallstones may indicate a genetic predisposition.
What are the symptoms?
Although many people with gallstones are asymptomatic, others may experience:
- Severe pain in the upper right part of the abdomen, known as biliary colic .
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Indigestion or feeling of fullness after eating fatty foods.
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), if stones block the bile duct.
- Fever and chills, in case of infection.
If you experience these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately, as it could be a serious complication such as cholecystitis.
Treatments
The management of gallstones depends on the severity of symptoms and the size of the stones:
1. Active surveillance
For asymptomatic stones, immediate treatment is not always necessary. Monitoring with periodic checkups is recommended.
2. Medications
In some cases, doctors prescribe bile acids to dissolve small stones, although this process can take months or years.
3. Surgery
Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the most common treatment. It involves the removal of the gallbladder and generally results in a quick recovery.
4. Endoscopic therapy
If stones block the bile ducts, an ERCP can remove them without major surgery.
Gallstone prevention
Although it is not always possible to prevent their formation, these tips can help reduce the risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight: Avoid crash diets and focus on gradual weight loss.
- Eat a balanced diet: Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.
- Exercise regularly: It helps improve metabolism and overall health.
- Avoid prolonged fasting: Eating at regular times promotes proper bile flow.
Understanding what gallstones are and how they form is key to preventing serious complications. While many people can live with asymptomatic stones, detecting and treating this condition early significantly improves quality of life.
Adopting healthy habits, maintaining a healthy weight, and consulting a healthcare professional if you experience any symptoms not only prevents gallstones but also contributes to better digestive health overall. Take care of your gallbladder and enjoy a life free of abdominal discomfort!
