Imagine enjoying a delicious, indulgent meal with friends when suddenly, a sharp pain radiates from your upper abdomen, accompanied by nausea and discomfort. Little do you know, this incident could be an indication of gallbladder stones, a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. In this article, Dr Kapildev Yadav, Consultant, Liver Transplant And HPB Surgery, Fortis Hospital Mulund, explained the early warning signs of gallbladder stones and shed light on the causes behind them.
Causes Of Gallbladder Stones
Gallbladder stones, also known as cholelithiasis, are solid deposits that form in the gallbladder. They are primarily composed of cholesterol or bilirubin, a pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells and calcium salt. Several factors contribute to the formation of gallbladder stones, including:
1) Excessive Cholesterol
When the bile in your gallbladder contains too much cholesterol, it can crystallise and form stones over time. Excessive cholesterol production, high fat diet, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle can all contribute to the development of gallbladder stones.
Also Read: Effective Remedies for Immediate Relief from Excruciating Gall Bladder Pain
2) Bilirubin Imbalance
If your liver produces too much bilirubin or your gallbladder fails to efficiently excrete it, it can lead to the formation of pigment stones. Conditions such as liver cirrhosis, certain blood disorders, and infections can disrupt the normal balance of bilirubin, increasing the risk of gallbladder stones.
3) Gallbladder Dysfunction
In some cases, gallbladder dysfunction, such as incomplete emptying or sluggish movement, can create an environment conducive to stone formation. This dysfunction can result from factors such as inflammation, hormonal imbalances, or structural abnormalities in the gallbladder.
Warning Signs Of Gallbladder Stones
Recognising the early warning signs of gallbladder stones is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment. The following symptoms may indicate the presence of gallbladder stones:
1) Abdominal Pain
One of the most common symptoms is sudden and intense pain in the upper abdomen or right side. This pain, often referred to as biliary colic, can last for a few minutes to several hours. It may radiate to the back or right shoulder blade, and it typically occurs after consuming fatty or heavy meals.
2) Nausea
Gallbladder stone-related pain can trigger episodes of nausea and vomiting. These symptoms usually accompany the abdominal pain and may provide temporary relief.
3) Indigestion And Bloating
Gallbladder stones can interfere with the normal digestion and absorption of fats, leading to indigestion, bloating, and a feeling of fullness even after consuming small meals.
4) Jaundice
In cases where gallstones block the bile duct, a condition known as choledocholithiasis, jaundice may occur. Jaundice manifests as yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, and pale stools, indicating a disruption in the normal flow of bile.
5) Changes In Bowel Movement
Gallbladder stones can cause alterations in bowel movements, including diarrhoea or pale, foul-smelling stools. These changes may be a result of compromised bile flow and digestion.
Also Read: Gallbladder Problems: Things You Need To Know
6) Fever And Inflammation
If a gallstone causes inflammation or infection in the gallbladder (cholecystitis), fever, chills, and persistent abdominal pain may accompany the other symptoms.
[Disclaimer: The information in this article is provided by a registered medical practitioner. However, we recommend you consult your healthcare provider for accurate diagnosis and treatment.]
Image Credit: Freepik