Dr Balakrishna SN

Dr Balakrishna S N

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Know More About Gall Stones

Gall stones and Its Types

The gallbladder is an organ located on the right-hand side of the body, on the underside of the liver, below the front rib cage. Its primary purpose is to collect and concentrate a special digestive liquid (bile) produced by the liver. Bile is released from the gallbladder after eating and helps with digestion by traveling through bile ducts into the small intestine. Blockage of these ducts can be a serious and extremely painful condition.

There are two main types of gallstones: Cholesterol Gallstones and Pigment Gallstones. Cholesterol Gallstones are yellow-green in color and are the most common type, accounting for 80% of all gallstones. Pigment Gallstones are smaller and darker, and are more likely to occur in those with liver disease, infected bile ducts, or blood disorders such as sickle-cell anemia.

It is important to keep a close eye on gallbladder health, as gallstones can cause serious, painful conditions if left untreated. If you experience any symptoms of gallstones, consult with your doctor immediately.

What are the Causes for Gall stones?

There may be several reasons why you are experiencing gallbladder issues, including your genetics, weight, and diet. Bile may also be a factor, as it is essential for your body to function correctly but too much cholesterol can lead to gallstones. Additionally, if your gallbladder is not able to empty properly, this could be a cause of discomfort. At a professional level, you should be aware of all these potential factors and seek appropriate medical advice if you are experiencing any issues.

What are the Symptoms of Gall Bladder Stones?

You may not experience any symptoms or even be aware that you have gallstones, unless your doctor informs you. However, if you do experience symptoms, these may include:• Pain in the upper abdomen and back that can last for several hours • Nausea and vomiting • Itching all over the body • Other digestive issues, such as bloating, indigestion, heartburn, and gas • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) • Stools of an unusual color (often lighter, like clay). If you have any of these gallstone symptoms, please contact your doctor immediately. Professional medical advice is essential in treating gallstones and preventing any further complications.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Ultrasound is the most common tool used to detect gallstones. In more complex cases, a CT scan, MRI, or gallbladder nuclear scan may be required to evaluate gallbladder disease. Unfortunately, gallstones do not disappear on their own; dietary adjustments, such as reducing fat intake, may provide temporary relief, but the success rate is low and short-term. To ensure lasting relief from symptoms, the gallbladder must be removed. Treatments to break up or dissolve gallstones with medicines are not successful. The time-honored and safest treatment for gallbladder disease is surgical removal (laparoscopic cholecystectomy). Adults should consult their doctor to discuss the best treatment option for their individual case.

Laparoscopic Treatment for GALL Stones

Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (or Laparoscopic Gallbladder Surgery) is the safest and most effective way of treating gallstones and their associated symptoms. This surgery involves the removal of the gallbladder, along with any gallstones that may be present, through small incisions in the abdomen. The surgeon inflates the abdomen with air or carbon dioxide to give them a clear view of the area, before inserting a lighted scope with a video camera (a laparoscope) into one incision near the belly button and inserting surgical instruments into the other incisions. This approach minimizes post-operative pain, promotes faster recovery and, in most cases, allows patients to go home the same day of the surgery and return to normal activities quickly. For adults seeking a safe and effective treatment for gallstones and their associated symptoms, Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy is the recommended method.