Biliary stones, also known as gallstones, are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. Biliary stones can be made from cholesterol, bilirubin, or a combination of the two.

While biliary stones are generally harmless, they can have serious impacts on other organs in the body, including the heart. In this article, we will discuss the impacts of biliary stones on the heart.

Biliary Stones and Heart Disease

There are several ways in which biliary stones can impact heart health. One of the most common ways is through inflammation. Biliary stones can cause inflammation in the gallbladder, which can spread to other parts of the body, including the heart.

Inflammation is linked to heart disease, as it can cause the arteries to narrow and become blocked, reducing blood flow to the heart.

In addition to inflammation, biliary stones can also cause high cholesterol levels. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease.

Biliary stones can also cause an increase in bilirubin levels, which can lead to a condition known as Gilbert’s syndrome. Gilbert’s syndrome is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, as well as other health problems.

Biliary stones can also cause chest pain, or angina. Angina is a common symptom of heart disease, and it can be caused by a lack of blood flow to the heart muscle.

Biliary stones can block the bile duct, which can cause pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, as well as in the chest. This pain can be mistaken for a heart attack, and it is important to seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

Biliary Stones and Arrhythmias

In addition to chest pain and inflammation, biliary stones can also cause arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats. This can occur when the gallbladder becomes inflamed, as it can cause the heart to beat faster or slower than normal.

In some cases, biliary stones can also block the bile duct, which can cause a buildup of toxins in the body. These toxins can affect the electrical signals of the heart, causing it to beat irregularly.

Biliary Stones and Heart Failure

In rare cases, biliary stones can also cause heart failure. This can occur when the heart can no longer pump blood effectively throughout the body.

Heart failure can be caused by a variety of factors, including inflammation, high cholesterol, and arrhythmias. Biliary stones can exacerbate these conditions, leading to heart failure in some cases.

Treatment for Biliary Stones

If you have been diagnosed with biliary stones, it is important to seek treatment to prevent complications like those discussed above. Treatment options for biliary stones include medication, lifestyle changes, and surgery.

Medication can help to dissolve the stones, while lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and exercise can prevent the formation of new stones. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the stones and prevent further complications.

Conclusion

Biliary stones can have serious impacts on the heart, including inflammation, high cholesterol, arrhythmias, and, in rare cases, heart failure.

If you have been diagnosed with biliary stones, it is important to seek treatment to prevent these complications. With proper treatment and lifestyle changes, you can reduce your risk of heart disease and other health problems associated with biliary stones.