Busting Myths About Gall Bladder Stones

Gallbladder stones, commonly referred to as gall stones or cholelithiasis, are small hardened deposits of cholesterol and bilirubin that form in the gall bladder. Bilirubin is a substance produced by the body when the red blood cells or RBC start to break down. Gallbladder stones may be small or grow to the size of a golf ball. As they grow in size, gallbladder stones can block the bile duct, causing pain. This condition requires medical attention and treatment. BLK-MAX Hospital in Delhi is one of the top hospitals in India for gallbladder stone treatment.

What is the Gallbladder?

The gallbladder is a small organ that is located just under the liver. It stores and periodically releases bile, a digestive fluid. Bile is produced in the liver and released into the small intestine. When food, especially fatty food, enters the small intestine, the gallbladder releases bile to aid digestion.

Functions of the Gallbladder

• Stores and concentrates bile.
• Releases bile into the small intestine for fat digestion.
• Aids in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K).

Common Gallbladder Disorders

• Gallstones (Cholelithiasis): Hardened bile deposits causing pain and inflammation.
• Cholecystitis: Inflammation of the gallbladder due to infection or gallstones.
• Gallbladder Polyps: Small growths that may require medical attention.

Symptoms of Gallbladder Stones

Gallbladder stones may be small, like grains of sand. At this stage, there may be no symptoms or discomfort. Many people with small gall stones do not know they are there and require no treatment. When they are large, more in number, and start to obstruct the bile duct, they may cause some of the following symptoms -

• Discomfort or pain in the right upper abdomen
• Pain radiating to the right shoulder or pain of the back
• Nausea or vomiting
• Heartburn, gas, indigestion
• Frequent digestive and liver issues
• Yellow skin or eyes
• Dark urine
• Fevers and chills

Difference Between Gall Bladder and Urinary Bladder

The gall bladder is a small organ located under the liver. It stores and releases bile, which helps the body break down fats and absorb certain nutrients. The urinary bladder is a sac-like organ located in the lower part of the abdomen. It stores urine until it is released from the body through urination.

Key Differences Between Gallbladder and Urinary Bladder

Misconceptions About Gallbladder Stones

Gall stones are among the most misunderstood disorders. It is estimated that many people live with gallstones without experiencing any significant symptoms. In some cases, gallstones may cause infections, severe pains, or disorders like pancreatitis. There are several misconceptions about the condition and its treatment. It is best to discuss your symptoms with gall bladder doctors from BLK-MAX Hospital to get an accurate diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan.

Common Myths and Facts About Gallbladder Stones

Myth 1. Drinking more milk

Fact: One of the common home remedies that are recommended for gall stones is drinking more milk. There is no scientific research indicating that milk consumption can reduce or treat gallbladder stones. It is essential to follow the treatment for gallbladder stones as recommended by a doctor at BLK-MAX Hospital.

Myth 2. Drinking more Apple Juice

Fact: Apple juice or apple cider vinegar is often said to treat gallstones without gallbladder removal surgery. This is also a myth. There is no scientific proof to support such a theory. Gallstones may or may not require surgery. The recommendation or treatment plan should come from an experienced doctor.

Myth 3. Become a vegetarian

Fact: Many people believe that a vegetarian diet can "cure" gallstones. This is not true. Vegetarians are just as much likely to develop gallbladder stones as nonvegetarians. Adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your diet is always a good idea, but it cannot "cure" gallstones.

Myth 4. Removing the gallbladder is the ultimate solution

Fact: While it is true that in some instances, gallbladder removal is a recommended part of your treatment plan, surgery is not always necessary. If the gall stones are small and cause no symptoms, your doctor at BLK-MAX Hospital may recommend medication and monitoring.

Myth 5. Stone will pass through the urine

Fact: Unlike kidney stones, gallbladder stones will not pass through the urine. Consumption of water and staying hydrated will not remove the fatty substances in your food and will not prevent gallstones from forming. To understand more about the recommended course of treatment for gallbladder stones, talk to gastroenterologist & gastroenterologist surgeon.

Myth 6: Only Overweight People Get Gallbladder Stones

Fact: While obesity increases the risk of gallstones, people of all body types can develop them. Factors like genetics, age, gender, and diet play a significant role in gallstone formation.

Myth 7: Gallstones Always Cause Pain

Fact: Not all gallstones cause symptoms. Many people have "silent" gallstones that don't trigger any pain or discomfort. Symptomatic gallstones may cause sudden, intense pain in the upper abdomen or nausea.

Myth 8: Gallstones Can Be Dissolved With Home Remedies

Fact: There is no scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of home remedies in dissolving gallstones. Medical treatments such as medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery are the most effective options.

Myth 9: Gallbladder Removal Affects Digestion Permanently

Fact: The gallbladder stores bile, but its removal does not significantly impact digestion. Most people adapt well after gallbladder removal, experiencing only minor digestive changes in some cases.

Myth 10: Gallstones Are Caused by a High-Fat Diet Alone

Fact: While high-fat diets can contribute to gallstone formation, other factors like rapid weight loss, fasting, and genetics also play a role. A balanced diet with fiber, healthy fats, and regular meals is essential for gallbladder health.

Preventing Gallbladder stones

Scientists and researchers are still not clear if gallbladder stones can be prevented. However, there are certain changes you can make to your diet and lifestyle to reduce the risk of developing gallstones.

• Maintain a healthy weight - Obesity increases the risk of developing gallstones. Maintaining a healthy weight through dietary changes and exercises will reduce the chances of developing gallstones.
• Consume a balanced diet - Adding fish, limiting the intake of fatty foods are believed to reduce the risk of developing gallstones. Add more whole grains to your diet. Adding low-fat dairy products and fresh vegetables and fruits will help maintain a good diet.
• Stay hydrated.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid rapid weight loss diets.

Conclusion

Understanding the truth behind gallbladder stones helps in better management and prevention of this condition. If you experience symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are gallbladder stones serious?

In some cases, gallstones do not cause any severe symptoms. You may not even know you have gallstones unless there is an incidental finding. However, gallbladder stones may obstruct the bile duct and may even cause pancreatitis in some cases. An infection may accompany this condition. These cases are severe and need gall bladder stones treatment or gallbladder removal surgery.

2. What is the main cause of gallstones?

Gallstones are formed if bile contains excess cholesterol or excess bilirubin. The bile may contain a lower quantity of bile salts in these cases. The exact cause for the formation of gallstones is not fully clear to scientists.

3. What happens if gallstones are left untreated?

If your gallstones are minor and do not cause any symptoms, doctors may recommend regular monitoring without treatment or recommend some medicine for gallstones. Surgery is recommended if the gallstone is big or obstructive. If the doctor suspects that the gallstone is growing and may soon cause discomfort, they may recommend surgery. In these cases, you should not let the gallstones remain untreated.

4. What should I avoid eating with gallstones?

If you have developed gallstones, it is recommended that you avoid rich, oily foods. Whole fat milk and packaged foods are best avoided as well. Speak to your doctor at BLK-MAX Hospital about recommended dietary changes.

5. Can a person live without a gallbladder or urinary bladder?

Yes. The gallbladder can be surgically removed (cholecystectomy) without major health issues, though dietary modifications may be necessary. If the urinary bladder is removed (cystectomy), alternative urine drainage methods are required.

6. What happens when the gallbladder stops working?

When the gallbladder malfunctions due to gallstones or inflammation, bile flow is disrupted, leading to digestion issues and abdominal pain.