Gallbladder, its functions and How Gallstones Come About
The gallbladder though a small organ, plays a crucial role in the body since it stores the bile, a key component that facilitates digestion. It is located on the right side of the abdomen and attached to the bile ducts below the liver. Gallstones are some of the most common issues that affect the gallbladder and its efficient functioning as part of the digestive system. It is where the liquid bile solidifies into stone-like substances and this is why they are called gallstones. Gallstones are caused by numerous factors, but experts say that too much cholesterol or bilirubin, which is a by-product of the breakdown of red blood cells, can also contribute to the development of gallstones. The other cause is when bile empties incompletely into the gallbladder to the extent that it is concentrated to form stones.
In many cases, Gallstone Surgery North Shore may be harmless but when they are so big such as the size of a golf ball, they can be a source of pain. They can begin to block the pancreatic ducts, which can seriously affect the functioning of the gallbladder, the liver, or the pancreas. Gallstones have been found to be the major cause of cholecystitis. It is an acute inflammation of the gallbladder.
Symptoms and Risk Factors
Risk factors that can lead to the development of gallstones include obesity, diabetes, dramatic loss of weight. Gender also accounts for this problem, with women being more susceptible to developing gallstones than men. Experts have also found that native Americans and Mexican-Americans are at a higher risk of developing gallstones than the rest of the population.
Signs of Gallstones
People who have gallstones exhibit little to no signs, especially at the early stages of the condition. They are difficult to identify and can only be detected when they block the bile ducts. The common symptom of gallstones is a pain in the upper right and or center section of the abdomen. Patients may also feel discomfort in the upper back. Some of the complications include severe abdominal pain, jaundice, high chills, and fever.
Diagnosis and Treatment
When you notice or feel some of the above signs, it is advisable to see your physician for help. Your doctor will inquire about your past medical history before scheduling an examination. Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI scans may be performed to rule out the presence of gallstones. Blood tests may also be done to rule out any underlying infections in the pancreas.
Where the imaging reveals the presence of gallstones, your doctor may recommend laparoscopic Gallstone Surgery North Shore to remove the gallbladder. The removal of the gallbladder is the commonly used treatment for symptomatic gallstones. However, where the condition is such that the gallstones are mild, the doctor may provide alternative medication.
No Comments