Gallbladder Stones – When Surgery is Needed

What Are Gallbladder Stones?

Gallbladder stones, also called gallstones, are small, hard pieces that form in the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ under your liver. It stores bile, which helps digest fat. Sometimes, bile can turn into stones. These stones can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. While many people have gallstones, not everyone needs treatment. However, in some cases, surgery is needed to remove the gallbladder. Knowing when to remove the gallbladder is important for your health.

Symptoms of Gallbladder Stones

Many people with gallstones do not have symptoms. But, when stones block the flow of bile, problems can start. Watch for these signs:

Pain in the upper right side of the belly, often after eating fatty foods

Pain that spreads to the back or right shoulder

Nausea or vomiting

Fever or chills

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Dark urine or light-colored stools

If you notice these gallstones symptoms, you should see a doctor. Early care can prevent serious problems.

Causes and Risk Factors

Gallstones form when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. For example, too much cholesterol or bilirubin can lead to stones. Several factors increase your risk:

Being overweight or obese

Eating a high-fat or high-cholesterol diet

Rapid weight loss

Family history of gallstones

Being female, especially during pregnancy

Age over 40 years

Certain medical conditions, like diabetes

Because some risk factors cannot be changed, it is important to know your personal risk.

When Is Surgery Needed for Gallbladder Stones?

Not all gallstones need surgery. However, surgery may be needed if you have:

Repeated pain attacks (biliary colic)

Gallbladder inflammation (cholecystitis)

Stones blocking the bile duct

Infection or swelling in the gallbladder

Yellowing of the skin or eyes

In these cases, doctors often recommend removing the gallbladder. This is called a cholecystectomy. According to the CDC, surgery is the most common treatment for gallstones with symptoms. If you wonder about treatment for gallstones, talk to your doctor about your options.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Doctors use several tests to find gallstones. First, they may ask about your symptoms and health history. Next, they may order imaging tests, such as:

Ultrasound of the belly (most common test)

CT scan or MRI

Blood tests to check for infection or liver problems

With these tests, doctors can see the stones and check for complications. This helps decide if surgery is needed.

Types of Gallbladder Surgery

There are two main types of gallbladder surgery:

Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Doctors make small cuts and use a camera to remove the gallbladder. Most people go home the same day.

Open cholecystectomy: Doctors make a larger cut in the belly. This is needed if there are complications or infection.

Most people have laparoscopic surgery because it is safer and recovery is faster.

Recovery and Aftercare

After gallbladder surgery, most people recover quickly. You may feel sore for a few days. However, you can usually return to normal activities within a week. Here are some tips for recovery:

Follow your doctor’s advice about activity and diet

Eat small, low-fat meals at first

Drink plenty of water

Watch for signs of infection, like fever or redness

Take medicines as prescribed

If you have any concerns, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Prevention Tips

While not all gallstones can be prevented, you can lower your risk by:

Maintaining a healthy weight

Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fiber

Avoiding rapid weight loss

Staying active with regular exercise

Drinking enough water every day

These steps can help keep your gallbladder healthy.

Conclusion

Gallbladder stones can cause pain and other complications. In some cases, surgery may be the best treatment option. If you have symptoms or are unsure about when to remove the gallbladder, consult a specialist at Gupta Hospital for personalised guidance on gallbladder stones and surgery.