Gallstones: Causes, Symptoms, and Complications
Cholelithiasis (gallstone disease) occurs when cholesterol in bile crystallizes, blocking ducts between the liver, gallbladder, and small intestine.
Symptoms
- Sharp abdominal pain
- Fever
- Nausea and vomiting
Complications
- Infection
- Pancreatitis
- Rarely, death
Risk Factors
- Age
- Obesity
- Female sex
- High cholesterol or bilirubin in bile
Treatment
- Cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal)
- Lithotripsy (sound waves to break stones)
- Medications to dissolve stones
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