Show
SummaryRead the full fact sheet
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by: This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by: Related information
From other websitesContent disclaimerContent on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. Gallstones form when bile stored in the gallbladder hardens into stone-like material. Too much cholesterol, bile salts, or bilirubin (bile pigment) can cause gallstones. When gallstones are present in the gallbladder itself, it is called cholelithiasis. When gallstones are
present in the bile ducts, it is called choledocholithiasis. Gallstones that obstruct bile ducts can lead to a severe or life-threatening infection of the bile ducts, pancreas, or liver. Bile ducts can also be obstructed by cancer or trauma, but this is not related to gallstones. Cholesterol stones are believed to form when bile contains too much cholesterol, too much bilirubin, not enough bile salts, or when the gallbladder does not empty as it should
for some other reason. Pigment stones tend to develop in people who have cirrhosis, biliary tract infections, and hereditary blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia. The causes of these stones are uncertain. At first, most gallstones do not cause symptoms. However, when gallstones become larger, or when they begin obstructing bile ducts, symptoms or "attacks" begin to occur. Attacks of gallstones usually occur after a fatty meal
and at night. The following are the most common symptoms of gallstones. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: Steady, severe pain in the upper abdomen that increases rapidly and may last from 30 minutes to several hours Pain in the back between the shoulder blades Pain in the right shoulder Nausea Vomiting Fever Chills Jaundice. A yellowing of the skin or eyes. Abdominal bloating Intolerance of fatty foods Belching or gas Indigestion People who experience the following symptoms should consult their doctor immediately:
Some people with gallstones do not have any symptoms. These stones are called "silent stones," because they do not interfere with the function of the gallbladder, liver, or pancreas, and do not require treatment in most cases. The symptoms of gallstones may resemble other conditions or medical problems, such as heart attack, appendicitis, ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, hiatal hernia, pancreatitis, or hepatitis. Always consult your health care provider for a diagnosis.
Who is affected by gallstones?The following are suggested risk factors for gallstones:
How are gallstones diagnosed?In some cases, asymptomatic gallstones are discovered by accident--during testing for another diagnosis. However, when pain persists or happens again and again, your health care provider may want to conduct a complete medical history and physical examination, in addition to the following diagnostic procedures for gallstones:
Treatment for gallstonesSpecific treatment for gallstones will be determined by your health care provider based on:
If the gallstones cause no symptoms, treatment is usually not necessary. However, if pain persists, treatment may include:
Can you still get gallstones if you don't have a gallbladder?Risk factors include a history of gallstones. However, choledocholithiasis can occur in people who have had their gallbladder removed.
How common are gallstones after gallbladder removal?Recurrent bile duct stones is the most common complication after gallstone surgery and the incidence is about 4–24%.
What are the symptoms of a blocked bile duct after gallbladder removal?Itching. Jaundice (yellow skin color) Nausea and vomiting. Pale-colored stools.
What problems can occur years after gallbladder removal?The symptoms include fatty food intolerance, nausea, vomiting, heartburn, flatulence, indigestion, diarrhea, jaundice, and intermittent episodes of abdominal pain. Post-cholecystectomy syndrome can present early, typically in the post-operative period, but can also manifest months to years after surgery.
|