Women are twice as likely to develop gallstones than men. Your gallbladder is a small organ that is shaped like a pear on the right side of your abdomen, just below your liver. It’s job is to store a digestive fluid called bile, which is released whenever you eat to help your body digest fats.
The bile that is stored in the gallbladder can harden to become a stone-like substance. This is what is known as gallstones. There are several reasons why this might happen. It could be due to too much cholesterol, too much bilirubin, not enough bile salts, or when the gallbladder does not empty correctly.
Symptoms of gallstones
In most cases, gallstones do not cause any signs or symptoms. Symptoms may begin to appear if a gallstone is stuck in an opening inside the gallbladder and causes a blockage. If this happens, you will feel pain in the upper right side of your abdomen. You may also feel pain in the centre of your abdomen, upper back pain, and pain on your right shoulder. The pain may last several minutes to a few hours.
Other symptoms may also appear, including:
- Feeling feverish, having chills, and sweating
- Wanting to throw up
- Bloating in the abdomen
- Jaundice
- Indigestion, belching, or gas
- Colour changes in your urine or stools
Who is at risk of developing gallstones?
Certain people are more prone to developing gallstones. There are also some behavioural patterns that might increase your risk. These include:
- Female, especially if you have had children
- Age 40 or over
- Being overweight or obese
- Having a sedentary lifestyle
- Pregnancy
- A diet that is high in fat and cholesterol or low in fibre
- Losing weight rapidly
- Having diabetes
- Taking medications that contain oestrogen, such as oral contraceptives or hormone therapy
Treatment of gallstones
Treatment of gallstones is necessary if you experience persisting pain or complications, such as jaundice. There are several options available, and the best one for you will be based on factors such as your age, the severity of the condition, and your preference.
Treatment may involve surgery to remove the gallbladder or a procedure or medications to dissolve the gallstones.
For inquiries, contact us at +65 88141140.
