Gallstones: Symptoms, Treatment Options, and Weight Concerns

After having gallstones, I feel like my life is going to be dull?

Hello Doctor, I learned from a health check that I have gallstones.
I have always considered myself a healthy person, going to bed early, waking up early, jogging regularly, and being mindful of my diet.
My health checks before giving birth were always normal.
After having two children, I never expected to hear from the doctor that I have gallstones, and I feel like my life is dimming.
Currently, my symptoms include: 1.
A slight prickling sensation in the upper right abdomen, but no pain.
2.
My bowel movements have increased from once a day to two or three times a day; although I am not experiencing diarrhea, my stools are brownish-yellow and soft (indicating higher moisture content).
3.
I feel easily fatigued and often feel tired in the morning.
4.
I frequently feel hungry, eat reasonably well, and often wake up hungry at night, yet I have lost weight (my weight has decreased from 53 kg to 49 kg over six months).
5.
I often experience palpitations, with a heart rate of about 90-100 beats per minute.
6.
Sometimes I feel like there is something in my abdomen, and at times it feels like it reaches my throat.
I just finished breastfeeding my second child two months ago, my menstrual period has not returned yet, but I feel like it is coming soon.
May I ask: 1.
Are my symptoms caused by gallstones? 2.
Are there alternative methods to remove or dissolve the stones? 3.
After developing gallstones, is it harder to gain weight? Why? I would greatly appreciate your time in answering these questions!

An Dan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/09/16

Dr. Cai Zonglong reply Internal Medicine

Hello, your issue may be associated with peptic ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome.
I recommend consulting a gastroenterologist for diagnosis and treatment.
Additionally, about 30-35% of people have gallstones, so there is no need to worry unless you experience severe pain or fever; in that case, monitoring is sufficient and no immediate intervention is necessary.
Sincerely, Dr.
Tsai Tsung-Long, Internal Medicine.

Reply Date: 2005/09/16

More Info

Understanding gallstones can be a complex issue, especially when considering the symptoms, treatment options, and potential impacts on weight. Based on your description, it seems you have been diagnosed with gallstones, and you are experiencing a variety of symptoms that are causing you concern. Let’s break down your questions and provide some clarity.

1. Are your symptoms caused by gallstones?
The symptoms you describe, such as the occasional discomfort in the right upper abdomen, changes in bowel habits, fatigue, increased hunger, and palpitations, can be associated with gallstones, but they may also indicate other underlying conditions. Gallstones often cause symptoms when they obstruct the bile ducts, leading to pain (biliary colic), nausea, vomiting, or even fever if an infection occurs. However, many individuals with gallstones remain asymptomatic.

Your increased bowel movements and softer stools could be related to dietary changes or other gastrointestinal issues rather than directly caused by gallstones. Fatigue and palpitations may also be linked to stress, hormonal changes (especially postpartum), or nutritional deficiencies. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to evaluate these symptoms comprehensively, as they could be indicative of other conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders or hormonal imbalances.

2. Are there alternative methods to remove or dissolve gallstones?
Currently, the most effective treatment for symptomatic gallstones is surgical removal of the gallbladder, known as cholecystectomy. This can be performed laparoscopically (minimally invasive) or through open surgery, depending on the case's complexity. Non-surgical options, such as medication to dissolve gallstones (like ursodeoxycholic acid), are generally less effective, particularly for cholesterol stones, which are common in the population.

There are anecdotal remedies, such as the apple juice and olive oil cleanse you mentioned, but these lack scientific backing and are unlikely to be effective. It’s crucial to approach such remedies with caution, as they may lead to complications or delay necessary medical treatment.

3. Does having gallstones affect weight management?
Gallstones themselves do not directly cause weight loss or make it difficult to gain weight. However, the presence of gallstones can lead to dietary changes, as individuals may avoid fatty foods that trigger gallbladder attacks. This avoidance can inadvertently lead to weight loss, especially if the diet becomes overly restrictive.

Moreover, gallstones can sometimes be associated with metabolic syndrome, which includes obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. If you are experiencing weight loss without trying, it’s essential to investigate further, as this could indicate an underlying health issue that needs to be addressed.

Conclusion
In summary, while your symptoms may be related to gallstones, they could also stem from other conditions. It’s essential to have a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional who can provide a tailored approach to your situation. Surgical intervention is typically the most effective treatment for symptomatic gallstones, and while there are alternative remedies, they are not scientifically validated. Lastly, weight changes associated with gallstones are more likely due to dietary adjustments rather than the stones themselves.

I recommend discussing your symptoms and concerns with your healthcare provider, who can guide you through the best course of action based on your specific health needs.

Similar Q&A

Gallstones and Fatty Liver: Treatment Options and Dietary Management

Hello Doctor: A few days ago, I experienced abdominal pain that radiated to my back after eating barbecue. I visited a gastroenterologist and had an ultrasound today, which revealed that I have multiple gallstones. I had an ultrasound done at the end of July, which indicated that...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gallstones cannot be treated with medication. If pain or acute cholecystitis occurs, surgical treatment is necessary. Rapid weight loss can lead to the excretion of some body fat through the biliary tract, resulting in the rapid formation of biliary system stones. If there...

Understanding Gallstones: Treatment Options and Prevention Strategies

Is surgery the only option for treating gallstones? What do you recommend? Is the surgery to remove the gallbladder, or is it just a localized treatment for the gallstones? What causes gallstones, and how can they be prevented? Thank you for your response.

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello everyone: For symptomatic gallstones, surgery is generally the better option to prevent future complications. Please discuss any other questions with your physician during your visit. Wishing you good health!

Gallstones: Understanding Risks, Treatment Options, and Prevention Tips

Recently, I visited a doctor due to persistent abdominal bloating and discovered that I have multiple gallstones. I consulted two large, reputable hospitals. One repeatedly emphasized the need to remove the gallbladder to prevent future complications, but my family disagrees. The...

Dr. Huang Zhihui reply Surgery
"Gallstones," more accurately referred to as "gallbladder stones," are a common condition. According to foreign literature, approximately over 10% of the adult population has gallstones, and the incidence increases with age, with rates as high as 30-40% among ...

Managing Gallstones: Treatment Options and Follow-Up Care

Hello Dr. Tsai: I was diagnosed with gallstones after an abdominal ultrasound in October. Aside from surgery, is there a medication treatment for gallstones? Also, is it necessary to have follow-up abdominal ultrasounds? If follow-up is needed, how often should the checks be done...

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gallstones can be classified into three types: 1. Cholesterol stones: These are formed due to obesity and the consumption of high-fat, high-calorie foods, which increase the concentration of cholesterol in bile. 2. Pigment stones: These stones are formed due to bacterial o...