Gallstones – What They Are and How to Deal With Them

When talking about gallstones, solid particles that develop inside the gallbladder, often made of cholesterol or bilirubin. Also called gallbladder stones, they can block the flow of bile and trigger pain. The condition links closely to the bile ducts, the tubes that carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the intestine, and may require a cholecystectomy, surgical removal of the gallbladder when symptoms are severe. Some patients use ursodeoxycholic acid, a medication that can dissolve certain cholesterol stones, as a non‑surgical alternative. Understanding these pieces helps you spot problems early and choose the right care.

Key Facts About Gallstones

First, know the two main types: cholesterol stones, which are yellow‑green and form when bile contains too much cholesterol, and pigment stones, which are dark and result from excess bilirubin. Risk factors include a high‑fat diet, obesity, rapid weight loss, and genetics. Women, especially those who are pregnant or on hormone therapy, see gallstones more often. When a stone slips into a biliary colic, a sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen, the body sends a clear warning sign that bile flow is blocked.

Symptoms aren’t always dramatic. Some people feel a dull ache after meals, especially greasy ones, while others have nausea, vomiting, or even fever if an infection develops. If you notice jaundice—yellowing of the skin or eyes—that could mean a stone has lodged in the common bile duct, a situation that needs prompt medical attention.

Diagnosis usually starts with an ultrasound because it’s quick, non‑invasive, and catches most stones. If the picture isn’t clear, doctors may order a CT scan or a HIDA scan, which tracks bile movement. Blood tests check for signs of infection or liver stress.

Treatment options depend on stone size, type, and how they’re affecting you. Small cholesterol stones sometimes dissolve with ursodeoxycholic acid, but the process can take months and isn’t guaranteed. For larger or painful stones, a laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the go‑to solution—most patients bounce back in a week or two. In urgent cases where the common bile duct is blocked, an endoscopic procedure called ERCP removes the stone without opening the abdomen.

Lifestyle tweaks can lower your chances of developing new stones. Aim for steady weight loss instead of crash diets, keep saturated fats low, and add fiber‑rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Staying hydrated helps bile stay fluid, reducing crystal formation.

The articles below cover a wide range of health topics—from medication safety to natural remedies and chronic disease management. While they don’t all focus on gallstones, they share a common goal: giving you clear, actionable advice to improve your well‑being. Browse the list to find practical tips on managing side effects, choosing the right supplements, and navigating the healthcare system. Each piece adds a piece to the puzzle of staying healthy, whether you’re dealing with gallstones or any other condition.