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Are you at risk for bile stones? Find out now

Bile stones, also known as gallstones, are deposits of hardened digestive fluid that form in your gallbladder. They can range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball by Jerry brooks
Estimated reading time: 2 min 52 sec
Are you at risk for bile stones? Find out now Photo by Harrison Haines on Pexels

Bile stones, also known as gallstones, are deposits of hardened digestive fluid that form in your gallbladder. They can range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball.

Bile stones affect an estimated 10-15% of adults in the United States which means you could be at risk for developing them.

What Are the Symptoms of Bile Stones?

Many people with bile stones do not have any symptoms and may never know they have them. However, if bile stones become lodged in a duct or irritate the lining of the gallbladder, this can cause symptoms such as:.

  • Pain in the upper right or upper middle abdomen
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Difficulty digesting fatty foods
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Who Is at Risk for Bile Stones?

Some factors that increase the risk of developing bile stones include:.

  • Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop bile stones
  • Age: The risk of developing bile stones increases with age, especially after age 60
  • Family history: If one or more of your family members has had bile stones, you are more likely to develop them
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of developing bile stones
  • Diabetes: Having diabetes can increase the risk of developing bile stones
  • Rapid weight loss: Losing weight too quickly can cause bile stones to form

How Are Bile Stones Diagnosed?

If you are experiencing symptoms of bile stones, your doctor may recommend the following tests:.

Related Article Learn about the warning signs of bile stones Learn about the warning signs of bile stones

  • Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of your gallbladder and can detect the presence of bile stones
  • Blood tests: Your doctor may perform blood tests to check for signs of infection or check your liver function
  • CT scan: This test uses x-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of your organs, including the gallbladder
  • MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can create detailed images of your organs to help diagnose bile stones
  • Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This is an invasive procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera on the end to examine your bile ducts and remove bile stones or other obstructions

How Are Bile Stones Treated?

If you are experiencing symptoms of bile stones, your doctor may recommend the following treatments:.

  • Watchful waiting: If you are not experiencing any symptoms and your bile stones are not causing any problems, your doctor may recommend watchful waiting to monitor their growth and development
  • Medications: Certain medications, such as ursodiol, can dissolve bile stones over time
  • Surgery: If your bile stones are causing symptoms or other problems, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove your gallbladder
  • Laparoscopic surgery: This is a minimally invasive procedure in which small incisions are made in your abdomen to remove your gallbladder
  • Open surgery: In some cases, open surgery may be necessary to remove your gallbladder

Preventing Bile Stones

To help prevent bile stones from forming, you can:.

  • Eat a healthy diet that is low in fat and high in fiber
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Exercise regularly
  • Avoid rapid weight loss
  • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption

Conclusion

Bile stones are a common condition that affects many people, particularly women and older adults. If you are experiencing symptoms of bile stones, it is important to talk to your doctor about your treatment options.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with bile stones are able to manage their condition and live a healthy, active life.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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