What are gallstones? Causes, symptoms and prevention tips

Gallstones may be tiny, but their impact can be huge. Learn how lifestyle, diet, and weight management play a key role in preventing gallbladder attacks. (Image: Pexels)

Despite being small, gallstones cannot be ignored. These stones are often made of hardened cholesterol or bilirubin and can build up in your gallbladder without showing many early signs. But when they block a bile duct, it can trigger an excruciating gallbladder attack. Once symptoms begin, it’s crucial not to delay seeking medical help, as things can turn serious very quickly if left untreated.

Pain is the main symptom. It usually starts in the upper right side of your abdomen and can last for hours. That pain might radiate to your back or right shoulder, and it often follows a fatty meal. This happens because the blocked bile flow causes a painful backup in the gallbladder.

In some cases, this can also trigger inflammation, infection, or even problems in nearby organs like the liver or pancreas.

Why do gallstones form?

Gallstones develop when there is an imbalanced bile, a mix of too much cholesterol, bilirubin, or not enough bile salts. While some people have gallstones and are asymptomatic, others might suffer from repeated attacks if the stones aren’t removed.

What causes gallstones?

• Being overweight or obese
• Rapid weight loss or crash diets
• High-cholesterol or low-fibre diets
• Family history of gallstones
• Sedentary lifestyle

Diagnosis and treatment

Doctors typically rely on the medical history, a physical check-up, and laboratory investigations to confirm whether you have gallstones. Blood tests might reveal inflammation or infection in your gallbladder, liver, or pancreas.

If gallstones are to blame, the most common treatment is gallbladder removal surgery. Non-surgical options exist but aren’t often recommended.

Here’s what you can do to prevent the development of gallstones:

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Do not aim for quick weight loss; avoid crash diets. A slow, steady weight loss is safer.
• Follow a balanced diet: Your diet plays a major role. Include fibre-rich foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats to stay safe.
• Exercise regularly
• Exercise not only keeps you fit, but also supports healthy digestion and maintains cholesterol levels.
• Stay hydrated: Hydration is important, and drinking enough water helps keep while fluid and reduces stone risk.

Talk to your Healthcare Provider:

Before making big changes to your diet or health routine, make sure you consult your healthcare professional.

FAQs on Gallstones:

1. What are gallstones?
Gallstones are small, hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, usually made of cholesterol or bilirubin.

2. What are the symptoms of gallstones?
The main symptom is pain in the upper right abdomen, which can radiate to the back or right shoulder, often following a fatty meal.

3. How are gallstones diagnosed?
Doctors use medical history, physical exams, and laboratory tests to diagnose gallstones. Blood tests can reveal inflammation or infection.

4. What causes gallstones?
Factors include being overweight, rapid weight loss, high-cholesterol or low-fibre diets, family history, and a sedentary lifestyle.

5. How can gallstones be prevented?
Maintain a healthy weight, follow a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and stay hydrated to reduce the risk of gallstones.

6. What is the common treatment for gallstones?
The most common treatment is gallbladder removal surgery. Non-surgical options are less frequently recommended.

7. What should I do if I suspect I have gallstones?
Seek medical advice promptly to avoid complications such as inflammation, infection, or issues with nearby organs.

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.