Cholelithiasis: Why gallstones form and how to treat them

Gallstones are more common than you think — and often triggered by everyday habits. Here’s why they form, how to spot the symptoms, and when surgery becomes necessary (Image: Pexels)

Cholelithiasis, referred to as the formation of gallstones, develops when the bile inside the gallbladder becomes imbalanced. These stones may either be made up of cholesterol or pigments, or may be mixed in nature. While many people carry gallstones without ever knowing it, others experience symptoms like pain when the stones migrate or irritate the tract.

Why Gallstones Form

One of the most common causes of gallstones is supersaturation in bile. When the liver begins to secrete more cholesterol than the bile acids can dissolve, the excess cholesterol crystallises, leading to gallstones. Obesity, rapid weight gain, and calorie-dense diets significantly increase this risk.

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2. Hypomotility of the Gallbladder

If the gallbladder is not able to contract well after meals, bile stagnates, which causes the crystals to accumulate and form stones. Pregnancy, prolonged fasting may lead to such hypomotility. Certain medications can also slow down gallbladder movement.

Symptoms You Should Not Ignore

One of the most common symptoms of cholelithiasis is biliary colic, which refers to a sudden and severe pain in the upper right side of the abdomen. It may radiate to the back or the right shoulder and is usually experienced after the person consumes a fatty meal, as the gallbladder contracts. The pain may last for 30 minutes to several hours, and often resolves if the stone gets dislodged.

Nausea and Vomiting

During episodes where the person is experiencing pain, nausea, and vomiting may also be seen. Bloating isn’t uncommon, and the affected person complains of intolerance to fatty foods. Discomfort in the abdomen post-meals and dyspepsia or indigestion may be noticed.

How Gallstones Are Diagnosed

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Treatment

FAQs on  Formation of Gallstones

Cholelithiasis is the medical term for the formation of gallstones in the gallbladder due to an imbalance in bile.

What causes gallstones?

Gallstones can form due to supersaturation in bile when the liver secretes more cholesterol than bile acids can dissolve, or due to hypomotility of the gallbladder when bile stagnates.

What are the symptoms of gallstones?

Common symptoms include biliary colic, which is severe pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and intolerance to fatty foods.

How are gallstones diagnosed?

Gallstones are usually diagnosed using ultrasonography. Doctors may also perform liver function tests and check inflammatory markers.

What treatment is available for gallstones?

Asymptomatic gallstones may not need treatment, while symptomatic gallstones may require surgery. Lifestyle changes, such as avoiding fatty and fried foods, are often recommended.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.