Gallstone Treatment in Kolkata
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Overview
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder. They can vary in size, from tiny grains to larger stones, and are primarily made of cholesterol or bilirubin. Many people with gallstones experience no symptoms, while others may face significant discomfort or complications if left untreated.
Gallbladder Stone Symptoms
Early signs of gallbladder stones symptoms include:
Jaundice: Yellowing of skin and eyes
Sudden, intense pain in the upper abdomen
Large stone > 3cm
Indigestion and bloating
Sudden intense abdominal pain
Pain spreading to the right shoulder or back
Vomiting during episodes of pain
Nausea after fatty meals
Note: Gallbladder stone symptoms in males are similar to those in women but can be overlooked due to differences in pain tolerance.
Causes and Risk Factors
Gallstones develop due to:
Elevated cholesterol in bile
High bilirubin levels
Poor gallbladder emptying
Obesity or rapid weight loss
Diabetes and Crohn’s disease
Family history of gallstones
Risk factors include being female or over 40
Certain medications and high-fat diets
Evaluation
The gallbladder stones diagnosis process includes:
Physical examination
Medical history review
Blood tests
HIDA scan (hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid scan)
Endoscopic ultrasonography
Cholangiography
Management
If you experience gallstones symptoms, your gallbladder stone removal doctor in Kolkata will likely recommend the:
Laparoscopically (using small incisions)
Open surgery (using a larger incision)
Medications to dissolve stones
Conservative management may include:
Dietary modifications and pain management
Regular monitoring
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FAQs
Know Your Answers
Can gallstones dissolve naturally?
Natural dissolution is rare. Most cases require medical intervention or surgery for effective treatment.
Is surgery the only treatment option?
In Kolkata, while gallbladder stone surgery is most common, some small stones may be managed with medication under a doctor’s supervision.
How long will the recovery be after surgery?
Most patients return home within 24 hours and resume normal activities in 1-2 weeks.
Does pregnancy increase gallstone risk?
Yes, hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the likelihood of gallstone formation.
Who gets gallstones more often, men or women?
Gallstones are more common in women, especially those who are overweight or have hormonal factors.