At Kiran Gastro & Liver Clinic, Advanced Endoscopy Center, Dr. Kiran Kumar Jogu, a leading gastroenterologist and hepatologist in Hyderabad, provides expert care for gallstones, including diagnosis, treatment, and removal options. Gallstones are solid particles that form in the gallbladder and can cause significant discomfort and health complications. Early intervention can help prevent serious complications, including gallbladder inflammation and pancreatitis.
Gallstones are hardened deposits of bile that can form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver.
Cholesterol Gallstones: These are the most common and are made up of hardened cholesterol.
Pigment Gallstones: These are smaller and darker, formed from excess bilirubin, a substance produced when the liver breaks down red blood cells.
Gallstones can range in size from small grains to large stones. They can develop without symptoms, but when symptoms occur, they can lead to severe abdominal pain, infection, or other complications.
Although many people with gallstones don’t experience symptoms, when they do occur, the signs may include:
Intense abdominal pain (especially in the upper right or center of the abdomen)
Pain after eating, particularly fatty foods
Nausea and vomiting
Indigestion or bloating
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
Dark-colored urine and light-colored stools
Causes & Risk Factors of Gallstones
Gallstones form when the balance of substances that make up bile is disrupted.
High cholesterol levels: Cholesterol gallstones are common in individuals with high cholesterol.
Obesity:Overweight individuals are at a higher risk of developing gallstones.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase cholesterol production, leading to gallstones.
Age:Gallstones are more common in people over the age of 40.
Gender: Women are more likely to develop gallstones than men, especially those who have had multiple pregnancies.
Diabetes: People with diabetes may have an increased risk due to higher triglyceride levels.
Family History: Genetics can play a role in the development of gallstones.
Accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment. Diagnostic methods include:
Ultrasound: The most common and reliable method for detecting gallstones. It provides clear images of the gallbladder.
CT Scan:A detailed scan that can detect gallstones and identify any complications.
MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging may be used in certain cases to check for gallstones or complications like bile duct blockages.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):A more detailed ultrasound that is particularly useful in detecting smaller stones or issues in the bile duct.
Depending on the severity of symptoms, treatment for gallstones can range from nonsurgical methods to surgical removal.
Oral bile acid pills: Medications that dissolve cholesterol-based gallstones, but these are only effective for certain types of stones and take a long time to work.
Gallstone-dissolving therapy:This is often used for individuals who cannot undergo surgery, although it is generally less effective than other treatments.
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL):
A non-invasive procedure that uses shock waves to break up gallstones into smaller pieces, which can then be passed naturally. Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): A procedure used if gallstones are in the bile duct. A scope is passed through the mouth to remove the stones from the bile duct.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: The most common method for removing the gallbladder. This minimally invasive surgery uses small incisions and a camera to remove the gallbladder and any stones.
Open Cholecystectomy: In rare cases, when laparoscopic surgery is not possible, open surgery may be required.
Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: Recovery time is typically faster with this minimally invasive surgery. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week, with minimal scarring.
Open Cholecystectomy:Recovery may take longer, generally 4-6 weeks, due to the larger incision.
During the recovery phase, Dr. Kiran Kumar Jogu provides personalized care, including dietary recommendations and guidance on managing potential complications.
Expert Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist: Dr. Kiran Kumar Jogu is experienced in diagnosing and treating gallstones with a focus on minimal discomfort and long-term solutions.Advanced Endoscopic Techniques: State-of-the-art technology for diagnosis and treatment, including non-surgical options like ERCP and ESWL. Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to post-treatment care, Dr. Kiran offers holistic treatment options tailored to individual needs.
Expertise:Dr. Kiran Kumar Jogu has extensive experience in the screening, diagnosis, and management of colorectal cancer
Advanced Endoscopy Techniques: Utilization of cutting-edge endoscopy and imaging technologies for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis through treatment and post-treatment care, Dr. Kiran provides holistic, patient-centered care.
Personalized Approach:Tailored treatment plans for each patient to ensure the best possible outcomes.
Gallstones form when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. Cholesterol or bilirubin can harden, forming stones in the gallbladder.
Common symptoms include intense abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty foods, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. Some individuals may experience no symptoms at all.
Gallstones are typically diagnosed using ultrasound. Other imaging methods like CT scans or MRI can also be used to confirm the presence of stones.
Not always. Gallstones that do not cause symptoms may not require surgery. However, if stones lead to pain or complications, laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) is the most effective treatment.
While it’s not always possible to prevent gallstones, a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and staying active can reduce the risk. Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can also help prevent liver-related causes of gallstones.
If you're experiencing symptoms or are at risk for gallstones, consult Dr. Kiran Kumar Jogu at Kiran Gastro & Liver Clinic, Hyderabad. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can alleviate pain and prevent complications. Book your consultation today!