The gallbladder — an unsung hero in our digestive system — often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong. In this blog, doctors at Vedam Gastro Hospital, one of the best gastro hospitals in Surat guide us in understanding gallstones — those tiny, yet mighty, crystalline deposits causing significant discomfort in the abdomen and help in debunking the myths that cloud our understanding of this vital organ’s issues.

Myth 1: Only the Elderly Get Gallstones

Contrary to popular belief, gallstones aren’t exclusive to the elderly. While age increases the likelihood, even younger individuals can develop them due to various factors, including diet, genetics, obesity, and rapid weight loss.

Myth 2: Gallstones Only Cause Pain

Yes, gallstones are notorious for causing intense pain, known as biliary colic. However, their impact extends beyond discomfort. If a stone blocks the bile duct, it can lead to complications like cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder), pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), or jaundice.

Myth 3: Removing the Gallbladder Disrupts Digestion

A very senior Gastroenterologist at Vedam Gastro Hospital explains that the gallbladder’s primary function is to store and concentrate bile produced by the liver, aiding fat digestion. After gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy), bile drips continuously into the intestine, facilitating digestion. While some individuals may experience mild digestive changes post-surgery, most adapt without major disruptions.

Myth 4: Diet Doesn’t Affect Gallstones

High-cholesterol and high-fat diets are culprits in gallstone formation. Excessive intake of saturated fats prompts the liver to excrete more cholesterol into bile, leading to imbalances that form gallstones. Conversely, diets rich in fibre, vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats can help prevent gallstones.

Diet significantly influences gallstone development. Choosing a balanced diet, moderating fat intake, focusing on healthy fats, and maintaining a healthy weight are key factors in reducing the risk of gallstones. While diet isn’t the sole factor, it is a crucial player in the prevention of gallstone formation and supports overall gallbladder health.

Myth 5: All Gallstones Need Immediate Treatment

Not all gallstones warrant immediate action. Asymptomatic gallstones, found incidentally during medical tests for unrelated issues, may not require treatment. However, in case of severe pain or discomfort, medical intervention is necessary to prevent further complications.

Myth 6: Medication Dissolves Gallstones Completely

Medication for gallstones aims to dissolve cholesterol-based stones over time by altering bile composition. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is a common medication used for this purpose. It works by reducing the cholesterol content in bile, gradually dissolving small cholesterol stones over several months to years. However, this approach has limitations. It’s effective mainly for small, cholesterol-based stones and may take a long duration to work. Not all stones respond to medication, particularly larger or pigment stones. Additionally, there’s a risk of stone recurrence once treatment stops. Close monitoring and adherence to the prescribed regimen are crucial. While medication can be an option for certain cases, surgical intervention remains the primary treatment for symptomatic or larger gallstones that don’t respond to medication.

Myth 7: Gallstones Only Require Surgical Treatment

Dr. Ronak Malani, a senior gastro surgeon at one of the best stomach hospitals in Surat, confirms that alternative treatments, such as shock wave lithotripsy (using shock waves to break up stones) can be opted for in cases where surgery isn’t possible for a patient.

Myth 8: Pregnancy Doesn’t Influence Gallstones

Pregnancy significantly increases the risk of gallstones due to hormonal changes that affect how the gallbladder functions. The risk persists during the postpartum period. Fortunately, most gallstones discovered during pregnancy remain asymptomatic and may not require immediate action.

Myth 9: All Symptoms Point to Gallstones

Gallstone symptoms, like abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, overlap with various digestive issues. However, not all abdominal discomfort stems from gallstones. A thorough examination by a healthcare professional is essential for an accurate diagnosis.

Myth 10: Once Gallstones Are Removed, They Won’t Return

Dr. Pravin Borasadia, one of the best stomach specialists in Surat, says that in rare cases recurrence is possible even after gallstone removal. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes and maintaining a healthy weight, can significantly reduce the likelihood of their reappearance.

In Brief:

Debunking the myths surrounding gallstones is crucial for a better understanding of their nature, prevention, and treatment. While some misconceptions exist, awareness, lifestyle modifications, and timely medical intervention remain our best defences against gallbladder issues. Consultation with the best healthcare professionals helps navigate these myths, ensuring accurate information and appropriate management of gallstone-related concerns.