Gallstones synonyms
What other names are the Gallstones known by? Synonyms and other terms with which Gallstones are known.
Gallstones, also known as cholelithiasis, are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. These deposits can vary in size, ranging from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. Gallstones can cause significant discomfort and may lead to various complications if left untreated.
Cholelithiasis is a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile, a digestive fluid produced by the liver. The two main types of gallstones are cholesterol stones and pigment stones.
Cholesterol stones are the most common type, forming when there is an excess of cholesterol in the bile. These stones are usually yellow-green in color and can be either small or large. On the other hand, pigment stones are smaller and darker, resulting from an excess of bilirubin, a pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells.
While the exact cause of gallstones is not fully understood, several risk factors have been identified. These include obesity, female gender, age over 40, family history of gallstones, rapid weight loss, diabetes, high cholesterol levels, and certain medications.
When gallstones become symptomatic, individuals may experience severe abdominal pain known as biliary colic. This pain typically occurs in the upper right side of the abdomen and may radiate to the back or shoulder. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), fever, and clay-colored stools.
If gallstones are causing significant symptoms or complications, treatment options may include medications to dissolve the stones, lithotripsy (shock wave therapy to break up the stones), or surgical removal of the gallbladder, known as a cholecystectomy. Cholecystectomy is a common and generally safe procedure, as the gallbladder is not essential for normal digestion.
Prevention of gallstones involves maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats, and engaging in regular physical activity. It is also important to manage any underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes or high cholesterol, that may increase the risk of gallstone formation.
