Gallstones in Houston

Symptoms of Gallstones

Gallstones can vary in size and may cause no symptoms at all. However, when they block the bile ducts, symptoms may include:

• Sudden, intense pain in the upper right or middle abdomen
• Pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder
• Nausea or vomiting
• Indigestion or bloating after eating fatty foods
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Fever and chills (a sign of infection)

If you experience severe abdominal pain lasting for hours or symptoms of jaundice and fever, seek medical attention promptly.

Causes and Risk Factors of Gallstones

Gallstones develop when substances in bile, such as cholesterol and bilirubin, become imbalanced and form solid deposits. Contributing factors include:

Common Causes:

• Excess cholesterol in bile
• High levels of bilirubin (due to liver disease or infections)
• Poor emptying of the gallbladder

Risk Factors:

• Age & Gender: More common in women and individuals over 40
• Obesity: Increases cholesterol levels in bile
• Diet: High-fat, high-cholesterol, and low-fiber diets
• Diabetes: Higher triglyceride levels can contribute to gallstone formation
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes slow gallbladder emptying
• Family History: Genetic predisposition can increase risk
• Rapid Weight Loss: Leads to an overproduction of cholesterol in bile
• Certain Medications: Hormone therapy and cholesterol-lowering drugs

Diagnosis of Gallstones

At Curative Digestive Disease Center, our providers use state-of-the-art diagnostic tools to detect gallstones and evaluate their impact on digestive health. Diagnostic procedures include:

• Ultrasound – The most common imaging test for detecting gallstones
• Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) – Provides detailed images of the bile ducts and gallbladder
• CT Scan or MRI – Used for detecting complications related to gallstones
• HIDA Scan (Cholescintigraphy) – Evaluates gallbladder function
• Blood Tests – To check for infection, inflammation, or bile duct obstruction

Treatment and Management of Gallstones

Treatment for gallstones depends on their severity, frequency of symptoms, and potential complications.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options:

• Medications: Certain oral medications may dissolve gallstones, but this process can take months or years and is not always effective.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding fatty foods may reduce symptoms.

Surgical Treatment:

• Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Removal) – The most common and effective treatment for symptomatic gallstones. This minimally invasive procedure involves small incisions and a fast recovery.
• Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) – Used to remove gallstones that are blocking the bile ducts.

Our providers ensure that each patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their condition and health needs.

Why Choose Curative Digestive Disease Center?

At Curative Digestive Disease Center, we provide expert, patient-centered care for gallstones and other digestive conditions. Our commitment to excellence includes:

✔ Comprehensive Evaluation – Advanced diagnostics to pinpoint the cause of symptoms
✔ Expert Providers – Skilled in managing gallbladder and liver diseases
✔ State-of-the-Art Facility – On-site imaging and endoscopic procedures
✔ Minimally Invasive Treatment Options – Faster recovery and reduced discomfort
✔ Personalized Care – Tailored treatment plans for optimal health outcomes