Gallstones

What are gallstones❓ 

 Gallstones occur when bile forms stone, commonly due to cholesterol build up ⬆ 

 Mostly not harmful, but they cause problems if lodged 

 Risk factors include high fat diet, obesity, rapid weight loss, and pregnancy 🤰

What are the symptoms of gallstones❓ 

 Pain in the upper tummy (abdomen) 

 Feeling and/or being sick 🤮

 Fever (sometimes) 🌡

How do you diagnose gallstones❓ 

 Having classical symptoms 

 Examination of the abdomen 

 Ultrasound scan of the abdomen 

How do you treat gallstones❓ 

 Symptoms absent: no treatments required ❌ 

 Symptoms present: surgery to remove the gallbladder 

Why should I worry about gallstones❓ 

 If lodged they can cause: 

 Inflammation of the gallbladder 

 Inflammation of the pancreas (can be life threatening)