Cholelithiasis is the medical term for gallbladder stones. The gallbladder is located in the abdomen below the liver. The main function of the gallbladder is to transport bile juice into the small intestine.
Gallstones are formed when bile juice hardens and forms hard stones, obstructing the bile duct. As a result, the transport of bile to the small intestine is hindered. The stones can be cholesterol stones due to increased levels of cholesterol (common in females https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/health/why-do-gallstones-affect-women-more-pregnancy-is-also-a-risk-factor-say-experts/article70665874.ece during pregnancy) or pigment stones, which contain bilirubin.
Gallstones are more common in females due to oestrogen levels, which can increase during pregnancy and hormonal therapy. They can also be common in females who are obese. So, it is said that fat, fertile females around 40 years of age are prone to gallstones.
Gallstones can be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Asymptomatic gallstones are called silent stones. The size of the stones can range from as small as a grain of sand to as big as a golf ball. Tiny stones sometimes cause more pain.
Symptoms of Cholelithiasis are:
- Abdominal pain immediately after eating
- Bloating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Radiating pain to shoulder blade
- Indigestion
In the case of pregnant women, if gallstones are not causing trouble, they can be left as is. If surgery is needed, it can be performed in the second trimester, as it is considered safe.
Investigations:
- Ultrasound of abdomen
- CT
- MRI
Treatment:
Gallstones are generally not dangerous, but when they cause problems, they must be treated.
- Small stones can be treated with oral medication, though it’s time-consuming.
- Cholecystectomy — removal of the gallbladder — in cases where the stones are causing pain or jaundice.
Have you seen female patients with cholelithiasis in your OPDs?Share your views.
MBH/AB