Gall Bladder Disease

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Gallstone Disease: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Gallstone disease is a common condition where small stones form inside the gallbladder. These stones can range in size and may cause discomfort or serious health problems if they block the flow of bile. If you’re seeking expert care, Dr. Naresh Singhi, known as the best GI surgeon in Mumbai and a leading gallstone specialist in Mumbai, offers cutting-edge treatments for gallstones.

Let’s break down what gallstones are, their causes, symptoms, and the treatment options available for patients.

What Are Gallstones?

Solid formations known as gallstones develop within the gallbladder, a small organ responsible for storing bile, which is produced by the liver. Bile helps break down fat during digestion. When there is too much cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile, it can crystallize and form gallstones.

While some people with gallstones don’t experience symptoms, others may suffer from intense pain if the stones block a bile duct.

Types of Gallstones

There are two main types of gallstones:

Cholesterol Gallstones – These form when there’s too much cholesterol in the bile. This is the most common type.

Pigment Gallstones – These occur due to excess bilirubin in the bile, often caused by liver disease or blood disorders.

If you suspect you have gallstones, consulting a gallstone specialist in Mumbai like Dr. Naresh Singhi is important for accurate diagnosis.

Causes of Gallstones

Various factors can raise the risk of forming gallstones:

Excess Cholesterol in Bile

Consuming a diet rich in fats and cholesterol can contribute to the development of gallstones. The liver produces more cholesterol than bile can dissolve, which hardens into stones.

Incomplete Gallbladder Emptying

When the gallbladder doesn’t empty as it should, bile can become concentrated, leading to stone formation.

Bilirubin Excess

Conditions like liver disease or blood disorders can cause the body to produce too much bilirubin, which leads to pigment stones.

Family History

Gallstones may run in families, increasing the risk.

Obesity and Weight Loss

Being overweight or undergoing rapid weight loss can cause gallstones to form. If you are struggling with weight issues, Dr. Naresh Singhi, a robotic surgeon in Mumbai and a specialist in advanced surgery, can help with expert care.

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Symptoms of Gallstone Disease

Gallstones may not cause symptoms, but when they do, it’s called a “gallstone attack.” Symptoms include:

Pain in the Abdomen

The most common symptom is pain in the upper right abdomen, often after eating fatty foods. The discomfort may radiate to the back or right shoulder.

Nausea and Vomiting

If gallstones block the bile ducts, you may feel nauseous and experience vomiting.

Jaundice

Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) can occur when a gallstone blocks the flow of bile, causing bile to back up into the liver.

Fever and Chills

These can be signs of an infection caused by a blocked bile duct.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to seek advice from Dr. Naresh Singhi, the best GI surgeon in Mumbai, for prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing gallstones often involves ultrasound, CT scans, or MRCP to get detailed images of the gallbladder. Blood tests may also be done to check for infection or liver problems.

For patients experiencing severe symptoms, Dr. Naresh Singhi, a highly skilled laparoscopic surgeon at Apollo Endoscopy, Laparoscopy & Robotic Obesity Center in Mumbai, may recommend one of the following treatments:

Watchful Waiting

If gallstones aren’t causing symptoms, your doctor may suggest monitoring the condition without immediate treatment.

Medication

Certain medications can dissolve cholesterol gallstones, though they may take months or years to be effective.

Surgery (Cholecystectomy)

The most common treatment is the surgical removal of the gallbladder. Dr. Naresh Singhi, an expert in Laparoscopic surgery in Mumbai, uses minimally invasive techniques for quicker recovery and minimal scarring.

ERCP (Endoscopy Procedure)

In cases where gallstones block the bile ducts, an ERCP can be performed to remove the stones without surgery.

Prevention Tips

While it’s not always possible to prevent gallstones, you can reduce your risk by:

Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Being at a healthy weight through diet and exercise helps reduce the risk.

Avoiding Rapid Weight Loss: Sudden weight loss can increase the likelihood of gallstones. Aim for gradual weight loss.

Eating a High-Fibre Diet: Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help lower cholesterol and prevent gallstones.

Staying Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps keep bile flowing properly.

Conclusion

Gallstone disease can be painful, but with proper care and treatment, it is manageable. If you suspect you have gallstones or are experiencing symptoms, consult Dr. Naresh Singhi, the best GI surgeon in Mumbai and a top gallstone specialist in Mumbai, for expert diagnosis and treatment. From laparoscopic surgery to robotic techniques, you’ll be in the hands of one of Mumbai’s most experienced surgeons at Apollo Endoscopy, Laparoscopy & Robotic Obesity Center, Mumbai.