Gallstones & Bile Duct Stones

Gallstones can lead to biliary colic, which is intense abdominal pain caused by the obstruction of the gallbladder or bile duct when the gallbladder contracts. As the gallbladder is located in the upper right abdomen, the primary site of pain is often in the upper right abdomen, and some individuals may also feel pain radiating to the shoulder or upper back. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and indigestion, particularly after meals when the gallbladder starts contracting.

Most gallstones do not cause symptoms, but immediate medical attention is necessary when the following complications arise:

Diagnosing gallstones and bile duct stones usually involves a series of medical tests and imaging studies. Here are some standard diagnostic methods:

For symptomatic gallstones, gallbladder removal surgery is the optimal treatment. Currently, minimally invasive surgery using laparoscopic techniques has become the mainstream approach, offering the advantages of minimal trauma and quick recovery. Patients generally can be discharged one to two days after the surgery.

After gallbladder removal, there is no need to worry about digestion or diet issues, as the liver produces bile entirely. The gallbladder's role is to store and release bile, so only a tiny percentage of patients may experience temporary diarrhoea when initially consuming oily foods after surgery. This issue tends to be short-lived, and as the body adjusts, the problem gradually disappears, allowing for a normal lifestyle.

If complications such as bile duct stones or pancreatitis arise, Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may be needed to treat obstruction and inflammation caused by stones before surgery can be performed.

Here are some dietary recommendations to prevent the formation of gallstones:

• Low Cholesterol Diet: Reduce the intake of high-cholesterol foods such as red meat, butter, and cheese.
• High-Fiber Diet: Adequate fibre intake helps the digestive system operate smoothly, reducing cholesterol concentration in bile.
• Healthy Fats: Choose healthy fats to replace saturated fats, such as olive oil, flaxseed oil, and nuts.
• Moderate Protein Intake: Consuming an appropriate amount of protein contributes to maintaining overall health, but excessive intake may increase the risk of gallstones.
• Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet with abundant fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.