1. Overview of gallstones
Gallstones, also known as cholelithiasis, are solid substances that form within the biliary system. These solids can be made up of cholesterol, bilirubin, or other substances. Gallstones can form inside the gallbladder or within the bile ducts. The gallbladder is a small, sac-like organ located below the liver, and its main function is to store and concentrate bile to help digest fats.
2. Symptoms and diagnosis of gallstones
The symptoms of gallstones can vary from person to person, some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may have symptoms such as pain in the right upper quadrant, nausea, vomiting, jaundice, etc. These symptoms are usually worse after a heavy meal or eating greasy foods. Diagnosing gallstones usually requires imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.
Third, the best method of gallstones
There are two main methods of gallstones: medication and surgery. Medications** are mainly choleretic drugs and antibiotics to relieve symptoms and control infection. There are two main types of surgery**: cholecystectomy and cholelithotomy.
4. The choice of cholecystectomy and cholelithotomy
Cholecystectomy is the complete removal of the gallbladder by surgery to eliminate the possibility of gallstones. This surgery is usually used for severe symptoms, large or large number of gallstones, and severe impairment of gallbladder function. After cholecystectomy, patients need to adjust their eating habits to avoid problems such as fat indigestion.
Cholelithotomy is a surgical procedure to remove gallstones from the gallbladder while leaving the gallbladder itself. This procedure is usually used when symptoms are mild, gallstones are small or numerous, and the gallbladder is functioning well. After gallstone removal, patients need to undergo regular follow-up examinations to ensure that gallstones are not present**.
5. Advantages and disadvantages of cholecystectomy and cholelithotomy
The advantage of cholecystectomy is that the surgical effect is definite, the rate of gallstones is low, and the disadvantage is that some complications may occur after the operation, such as bile reflux gastritis, common bile duct stones, etc. In addition, after the removal of the gallbladder, the patient needs to adjust their eating habits to adjust to life without a gallbladder.
The advantage of cholelithotomy is that the gallbladder is preserved and the complications that may occur after gallbladder removal are avoided. The disadvantage is that gallstones are likely to be formed after surgery, and regular re-examinations are required. In addition, cholelithotomy is difficult to perform and requires a high level of skill from the doctor.
6. Doctor's advice and precautions
For patients who are found to have gallstones during the physical examination, the doctor will formulate the most suitable plan according to the specific situation of the patient, such as the size, number, location, severity of symptoms, and the function of the gallbladder. When choosing surgery**, the doctor will weigh the pros and cons of cholecystectomy and cholelithotomy according to the patient's needs and physical condition, and give professional advice.
It should be noted that no matter which method is chosen, patients need to actively cooperate with the doctor's advice, take medication on time, adjust dietary habits, and receive regular check-ups. At the same time, patients should maintain a positive mindset and believe that they can overcome the disease and recover their health.
7. Measures to prevent gallstones
It is very important to prevent the occurrence of gallstones. Here are some steps to take to prevent gallstones:
1. Maintain a healthy diet: The diet should be low-fat and high-fiber, and avoid excessive intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, such as animal offal and fatty meat. Also, increase your intake of fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, which are rich in fiber and can help lower cholesterol levels.
2. Maintain a regular eating schedule: Avoid prolonged hunger or overeating, which can easily lead to cholestasis, which can lead to the formation of gallstones.
3. Moderate exercise: Proper exercise can boost the body's metabolism and reduce cholesterol deposition, thereby reducing the risk of gallstones. It is recommended to do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, such as brisk walking, swimming, etc.
4. Control your weight: Obesity is a risk factor for gallstones, so maintaining a healthy weight is important to prevent gallstones.
5. Regular physical examination: Through regular medical checkups, potential problems such as gallstones can be detected and treated in a timely manner, so as to avoid the deterioration of the condition.
In conclusion, patients should not panic too much when faced with gallstones found during a physical examination. As long as you actively cooperate with the doctor's advice, take appropriate methods, and follow a healthy lifestyle, I believe that you will be able to overcome the disease and recover your health. At the same time, we should also pay attention to measures to prevent gallstones, strive to reduce the risk of their occurrence, and make our lives healthier and better.