Gallstones are small hard crystal-like
deposits that develop in the gallbladder or in the bile ducts, that drain bile
from the liver. Bile is a digestive juice which is produced by the liver and is
stored in the gallbladder, a small pear-shaped organ. Bile is made up mainly of
cholesterol and Bile acid. It is only when these stones get lodged in the duct
and block the free passage of bile does the symptoms arise. There are three
types of gallstones, viz., Cholesterol stones, Pigment stones, and Mixed stones
(which has pigment and cholesterol content). It is caused mainly by an increase
in blood cholesterol levels, as also the break-down of Red Blood Cells (RBCs) due to some
infectious diseases like sickle cell anemia or malaria. It can also result from
an infection of the gallbladder. Some risk factors which can further trigger
gallstones include obesity and pre-existing liver diseases.
Symptoms
Gallstones have a sudden onset. It would
entail pain in the right and upper abdomen, as well as nausea and vomiting.
Fever, a loss of appetite, darkening of urine, light-colored stools, and
jaundice are other symptoms. Also, the pain caused by gallstones is usually not
relieved by antacids.
Do’s
and Don’ts
First of all, you should control and maintain
your optimal weight. If you are obese, dieting and regular exercise will help
you to slim down. A low-fat diet, with fewer animal fats and dairy products
such as paneer, cheese etc is advised. Take plenty of fresh vegetables and
whole grains. Sunflower oil and safflower oil with their abundance of Vitamin C
will help in reducing the cholesterol content of bile. Fresh lemon juice and
bitter salads are especially useful, while high-fiber diets like peas, beans,
and bran help in the prevention of gallstone formation. Moderate consumption of
olive oil (2 teaspoons per day), also help in reduction and slowing down of
gallstones formation. Another substance helpful in preventing gallstone
formation is lecithin, which is used as a thickener in ice-cream. It is also
found in soya beans, oatmeal, eggs, milk, peanuts, cabbage, and chocolates.
Since gallstones are only one of the many possible causes of severe abdominal
pain, consult your doctor to find out the cause of the pain. Meet the doctor
also if the pain persists or if jaundice is noticed.
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