Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. They can vary in size and may cause significant pain and discomfort if they block the bile ducts.
Symptoms of Gallstones
Common symptoms include:
- Sudden and intense pain in the upper right abdomen
- Pain between the shoulder blades
- Nausea or vomiting
- Indigestion, bloating, and gas
- Fever and chills (if infection is present)
Causes and Risk Factors
Gallstones can develop due to various reasons:
- High cholesterol levels in bile
- Excess bilirubin in bile
- Incomplete emptying of the gallbladder
- Risk factors include obesity, a high-fat diet, diabetes, pregnancy, and certain genetic factors.
Diagnosis
At Tricity Clinic, we use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to accurately identify gallstones:
- Ultrasound: The most common imaging test to detect gallstones.
- CT Scan: Provides detailed images of the abdomen.
- MRCP: A specialized MRI scan that provides images of the bile ducts.
- Blood Tests: To check for infection or other complications.
Treatment Options
Our team of specialists offers a range of treatments tailored to your needs:
- Medications: To dissolve smaller gallstones.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: Laparoscopic cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder.
- Endoscopic Procedures: ERCP to remove gallstones from the bile ducts.
- Dietary Changes: Recommendations to prevent future gallstones.
