Types of Gallstones

1. Cholesterol stones : Most common, made of cholesterol

2. Pigment stones : Made of bilirubin, linked to liver disease or hemolytic anemia

3. Mixed stones : Combination of cholesterol and pigment stones

Causes & Risk Factors

1. Genetics : Family history of gallstones

2. Obesity : Excess weight increases risk.

3. Diet : High-fat, high-cholesterol, or low-fiber diet

4. Age & Gender : Older adults, especially women

5. Pregnancy : Hormonal changes increase risk

6. Liver disease : Certain liver conditions

Symptoms

1. Sudden, severe upper right abdominal pain

2. Nausea and vomiting

3. Fever (may indicate infection)

4. Jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes in severe cases)

Diagnosis

1. Ultrasound : Detects gallstones

2. CT scan : Rules out other conditions

3. ERCP : Visualizes bile ducts

Treatment

1. Watchful waiting for mild cases

2. Medications like Ursodiol to dissolve cholesterol stones

3. Surgery : Laparoscopic cholecystectomy

4. ERCP : Removes stones from bile ducts

Complications

1. Infection of gallbladder or bile ducts

2. Inflammation of gallbladder or ducts

3. Blockage causing jaundice or pancreatitis

4. Pancreatitis, which can be life-threatening

Dr. Yogesh Bade ensures accurate diagnosis and safe, effective treatment for gallstones and other digestive disorders.