Gallstones can be incredibly painful, but can be easily treated once they are diagnosed. Typical treatment involves a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the gallbladder itself to prevent further complications. In this article, we are going to discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for gallstones.

Gallstones – What are They?

First let’s talk a little bit about the gallbladder. The gallbladder is an organ responsible for storing and secreting bile into the small intestine. So what exactly are gallstones? Gallstones are formations of solid material in the gallbladder that form when cholesterol and other materials solidify.

Identifying the Symptoms of Gallstones

It’s important to familiarize yourself with the signs and symptoms of gallstones so you can recognize the condition and seek treatment when necessary. With that in mind, here are a few of the potential signs that can indicate a gallstone:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Pain in the upper abdomen
• Bloating, gas, or indigestion

Gallstones can also be symptomless. Many patients do not find out that they have gallstones until they undergo an examination for another condition. A final diagnosis of gallstones often requires blood tests, ultrasound imaging, CT scan, or MRI scans.

How to Treat Gallstones

In most cases once symptoms begin, gallstones need to be surgically removed by a qualified general surgeon. Typically the entire gallbladder is removed in a procedure called a laparoscopic (minimally invasive) cholecystectomy. If left untreated gallstones can cause serious issues in a patient’s digestive system, so it is important to treat the condition quickly once it has been diagnosed.

If you notice any of the signs or symptoms of gallstones, call and make an appointment with your physician to diagnose the condition. Once a diagnosis is reached, you can begin to discuss treatment options. If your physician recommends surgery, they will likely refer you to a skilled general surgeon to perform the procedure.