Gallstones are considered one of the most painful conditions a person can experience. Although they are a common health issue worldwide, their symptoms are often vague or unnoticeable.
اضافة اعلان
Gallstones are solid particles that form inside the gallbladder due to an imbalance in the composition of bile. They are among the most prevalent conditions globally.
According to a report by Mayo Clinic, it's estimated that 10–15% of adults in developed countries are affected by gallstones.
While most cases remain asymptomatic, some can lead to severe symptoms, especially if a stone moves and blocks the bile ducts.
In such cases, sudden and intense pain attacks can occur and may develop into complications such as cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder) or pancreatitis.
Common Symptoms of Gallstones
1. Sharp Abdominal Pain
Pain occurs when a stone blocks the cystic duct, causing pressure within the gallbladder.
It starts suddenly, usually in the upper right abdomen or middle upper abdomen (beneath the sternum) and can last from a few minutes up to 5 hours.
The pain may radiate to the back between the shoulder blades or the right shoulder.
It is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting and typically occurs after eating fatty meals or during the night.
2. Jaundice and Dark Urine
If a stone blocks the common bile duct, bile accumulates in the blood, leading to jaundice, which appears as yellowing of the skin and eyes, along with dark-colored urine.
3. Fever and Chills
Blockage by a stone can cause inflammation of the gallbladder or bile ducts, resulting in severe and persistent abdominal pain and tenderness upon touch.
Causes of Gallstone Formation
Gallstones form due to imbalances in bile composition, and several factors can contribute to their development:
High cholesterol levels in bile, which crystallize and form stones.
Hormonal and genetic risk factors – women over 40 are at higher risk, especially in cases of:
Obesity
Rapid weight loss
Diabetes
Family history of gallstones
Pregnancy
Use of hormonal contraceptives or hormone therapy
Bile stasis, which occurs when the gallbladder doesn't empty regularly, allowing particles to settle and crystallize.
When to Seek Treatment
While gallstones are common and often silent, they may not require treatment unless symptoms occur.
If you experience persistent pain, nausea, jaundice, or fever, a prompt medical evaluation is necessary.
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and may include:
Monitoring
Medication
Surgery (such as gallbladder removal)
