The gallbladder is where bile is stored and released, which is an integral part of healthy digestion. In some people, this bile can harden and lead to gallstones, which can range in size. Gallstones do not always cause negative health effects, but in some people, they can be rather uncomfortable. In this case, you will need to consider a treatment to relieve symptoms and prevent complications.
Not everyone with gallstones requires treatment. In the event that you do not experience symptoms, your doctor is likely to take a wait and see approach. If your symptoms worsen, you may be prescribed medication, such as ursodiol. This medicine is used when people cannot tolerate surgery for some reason (surgery is the primary treatment for symptomatic gallstones).
Medications like ursodiol work to dissolve gallstones, thereby alleviating symptoms. However, it can take months before the medication begins to work, and even then, gallstones might not completely go away. In some cases, gallstone dissolving medications will need to be taken for two years. There is also a chance more gallstones will develop in the future.
Gallstone complications can be identified by quickly intensifying pain that comes on suddenly. This pain is usually present in the upper right or centre of your abdomen, but it can also affect your back (between your shoulder blades), or your right shoulder. You may also experience nausea with vomiting. In this case, schedule an appointment with your doctor or seek emergency care if pain is severe.
While it is not always possible to prevent new gallstones, the following steps can lower your risk:
How you eat can also impact your chances of developing gallstones. In this case, try to maintain a regular eating schedule each day and avoid intermittent fasting and meal skipping.