Gallstones are hard deposits formed within the gallbladder, composed of cholesterol or bilirubin and in adults, abdominal pain is often caused by gallstones. It has a diverse clinical presentation where timely diagnosis and treatment helps.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Hemant Jain, consultant laparoscopic and GI cancer surgeon at Lilavati Hospital, Mumbai, said, “Bile is a fluid secreted by the liver. It contains chemicals that help digest dietary fat. The gall bladder stores and concentrates bile. Several factors can alter the delicate balance between the components of bile, leading to precipitation and the formation of gallstones. Gallbladder dysfunction, obesity, excess cholesterol secretion and bacterial infection increase the risk of gallstone formation.
symptoms:
Dr. Hemant Jain said, “Generally, there is severe pain in the right upper quadrant which comes and goes. Its intensity can be serious. Some individuals do not feel pain, but feel excessive gas, acidity, bloating, burning sensation etc. “If the stones have shifted and caused complications such as jaundice or pancreatitis, the eyes and urine will become yellow, there will be severe pain spreading to the back, severe itching of the skin and/or fever.”
Diagnosis:
Dr. Hemant Jain said, “Gallstones can be easily diagnosed by ultrasound examination of the abdomen. Sometimes, advanced imaging modalities such as MRI and CT scan may also be required.
Stages and Treatment:
About 5-10% of the population has gallstones. Dr. Hemant Jain said, “If gallstones are associated with symptoms (symptomatic gallstones), immediate medical attention is mandatory. The standard treatment for symptomatic gallstones is laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Delay is an invitation to trouble. “Drugs have little role in the management of gallstones.”
He further added, “Gall bladder surgery is routinely performed by small single skin incision at the navel (single incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy). It is safe, cosmetic and heals quickly. If the stones are not associated with symptoms (asymptomatic gallstones), not everyone needs surgery. The treating doctor has to consider many factors before recommending treatment, such as the size of the stone, age of the patient, place of origin, etc.
Preventive Measures:
Dr. Hemant Jain advised, “Increased secretion of cholesterol in bile and obesity are considered risk factors for the formation of gallstones. Therefore, it is believed that gradual weight loss and a well-balanced diet without excess fat can prevent the formation of gallstones. Gallstones are multifactorial in origin and can cause mild to severe symptoms. Surgery is often required and can be performed with a single-incision laparoscopic approach.
