Gall bladder stones

Overview

Gall bladder stones, also known as gallstones, are hardened deposits of digestive fluid that form in the gallbladder. They can range in size from small grains to large stones and can cause pain and other complications.

Causes

• Imbalance in bile composition (excess cholesterol or bilirubin)
• Slow gallbladder emptying
• Family history of gallstones
• Obesity or rapid weight loss

Symptoms

• Sudden and intense pain in the upper right abdomen
• Back pain between the shoulder blades
• Nausea, vomiting, or indigestion
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) in severe cases

Diagnosis

• • Ultrasound: Most common imaging test to visualize gallstones
• • Blood Tests: Liver function tests to check for signs of bile duct blockage
• • CT Scan or MRI: To detect complications such as infection or inflammation

Treatment

• • Watchful Waiting: If asymptomatic
• • Medications: Oral medications to dissolve small stones
• • Surgical Removal: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder if necessary