FAQ Category: COMPLETE GUIDE TO GALLSTONES

While some medications can dissolve small cholesterol stones over a long period, most popular “natural remedies” and cleanses lack scientific evidence and can be dangerous. Attempting to flush or dissolve stones at home can cause a stone to become lodged in a bile duct, leading to a serious medical emergency. Always consult a healthcare professional…

To help manage symptoms and prevent gallbladder attacks, it’s best to avoid foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol. This includes fried foods, processed meats, full-fat dairy products like cheese and butter, and rich, creamy sauces or desserts. These foods can cause the gallbladder to contract, which may trigger pain if stones are present.  

No, surgery is not always required. If you have “silent stones” that cause no symptoms, your doctor will likely recommend a “watch and wait” approach. Treatment is typically reserved for individuals who experience pain, inflammation, or other complications. The decision to have surgery is based on the frequency and severity of your symptoms and the…

Diagnosis typically begins with a physical exam and a review of your symptoms. The most reliable and common diagnostic tool is an abdominal ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of your gallbladder and detect stones. Your doctor might also order blood tests to check for signs of infection or complications, or a CT…

The most frequent symptom is a sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen, often called a gallbladder attack. This pain can radiate to your back or shoulder. Other common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, bloating, indigestion, and discomfort, especially after eating fatty or greasy foods. Symptoms can last from a few minutes to several hours.…