Gallstones

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Doctor with human Pancreatitis anatomy model with Pancreas, Gallbladder, Bile Duct, Duodenum, Small intestine and tablet. Pancreatic cancer, acute pancreatitis and Digestive systemGallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluids that form in the gallbladder. They are very common, affecting 10 to 15% of people living in the United States, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.

The exact cause of gallstones is unknown; however, it is believed that they develop in the gallbladder when:

  • The gallbladder is not emptying correctly
  • There is an excess of bilirubin
  • There is too much cholesterol
  • There aren’t enough bile acids or salts

Gallstones range in size, ranging from the size of a grain of sand to that of a golf ball. Smaller gallstones typically pass through the bile duct, without causing symptoms. Larger stones, however, may cause blockages, inflammation, or infections. They can become dangerous if they travel through the bile ducts to other parts of the body.

It is not uncommon for people with gallstones to not experience any symptoms. If they do, symptoms can include:

  • Abdominal pain or tenderness
  • Abdominal swelling
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Back pain, between the shoulder blades
  • Fever
  • Indigestion
  • Gas
  • Pain in the right shoulder

Certain individuals are at a higher risk of developing gallstones, particularly those with the following risk factors.

  • Obesity
  • Being born female
  • Pregnant people
  • Using birth control or hormone replacement medications
  • Adults aged 60 and older
  • Living with diabetes
  • Having a family history of gallstones
  • Rapid weight loss

Diagnosing gallstones involves completing a medical examination and taking your medical history.  Further diagnostic testing may include blood tests, or requesting imaging tests such as an X-ray, endoscopic ultrasound, or CT scan.

Treatment for gallstones depends on the severity of the condition and medical history. Options may include medications to dissolve the stones or gallbladder removal surgery.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center offers multiple options for gallbladder removal surgery, this includes robotic surgery. To schedule an appointment with a specialist, please call (718) 670-5000.

 

 

 

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.