Gallstones

Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver that stores bile. Here's an overview:

Types of Gallstones

1. Cholesterol stones: Most common type, composed of cholesterol and other substances.

2. Pigment stones: Composed of bilirubin and other substances, often associated with hemolytic anemia or liver disease.

3. Mixed stones: Combination of cholesterol and pigment stones.

1. Genetics : Family history of gallstones.

2. Obesity : Excess weight increases risk.

3. Diet : High-cholesterol, high-fat, or low-fiber diet.

4. Age : Risk increases with age.

5. Gender : Women are more likely to develop gallstones.

6. Pregnancy : Hormonal changes increase risk.

7. Liver disease : Certain liver conditions increase risk.

1. Abdominal pain : Sudden, severe pain in the upper right abdomen.

2. Nausea and vomiting : May occur with pain.

3. Fever : May indicate infection.

4. Jaundice : Yellowing of skin and eyes (in severe cases).

1. Ultrasound : Imaging test to visualize gallstones.

2. Computed Tomography (CT) scan : Imaging test to rule out other conditions.

3. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) : Imaging test to visualize bile ducts.

1. Watchful waiting : Monitoring symptoms and gallstone size.

2. Medications : Ursodiol (ursodeoxycholic acid) to dissolve cholesterol stones.

3. Surgery : Laparoscopic cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder.

4. ERCP : To remove stones from bile ducts.

1. Infection : Bacteria can infect the gallbladder or bile ducts.

2. Inflammation : Gallstones can cause inflammation of the gallbladder or bile ducts.

3. Blockage : Gallstones can block the bile ducts, leading to jaundice or pancreatitis.

4. Pancreatitis : Inflammation of the pancreas, which can be life-threatening.