Gall Stones

Gallstones are very common; one out of five adults have this condition.

Gallstones are literally small stones like objects s within the gallbladder. They are formed when there is an imbalance in liver secretions including bile salts and other chemicals. These are normally a part of the bodies systems which are used for the digestion of fat. Just like any of the bodies systems, unfortunately, there are susceptible to malfunction which in this case can result in gallstones.

Gallstones do not always cause symptoms and therefore do not always need to be treated. If they do cause symptoms, these include nausea, pain and bloating. In severe cases infection of the gallbladder can occur, infection of the liver and also pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). The complications of gallstones can be very severe.

There are many non-conventional theories about how gallstones should be treated if they are causing problems. In general, they do not dissolve, and they should not be reduced to smaller pieces as this can result in further problems.

Once diseased, the gallbladder will continue to form stones and is less productive within the body, its ability to assist in food digestion decreases.

Current best treatment for gallstones is to remove the entire gallbladder and stones. This procedure is called a ‘Cholecystectomy’ and is performed using keyhole surgery.