Gallstones: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

By Dr. Shiv Chopra, Senior Consultant – General Surgery, Laparoscopic, Robotic Surgery Moolchand

Introduction

Gallstones are hardened deposits of bile that form in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. While many people with gallstones experience no symptoms, others may face severe pain, nausea, or digestive issues. Understanding gallstones, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for maintaining gallbladder health.

At Moolchand, one of the top hospitals in Delhi, superb Surgeons  like Dr. Shiv Chopra use cutting-edge technology to diagnose and treat gallbladder conditions while providing compassionate care and affordable prices.

What Causes Gallstones?

Gallstones form when there is an imbalance in the substances that make up bile, including cholesterol, bile salts, and waste products. Common causes include:

• Excess cholesterol in bile – Can lead to crystal formation.
• Too much bilirubin – Often linked to liver disease or infections.
• Poor gallbladder emptying – Can result from pregnancy, fasting, or obesity.
• Genetic factors – Family history increases risk.

Symptoms of Gallstones

Gallstones often remain silent, but when symptoms occur, they may include:

• Sudden and intense pain in the upper right abdomen (biliary colic)
• Pain radiating to the back or right shoulder
• Nausea and vomiting
• Indigestion, bloating, and gas after fatty meals
• Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes) in severe cases

If these symptoms occur frequently, consult a general surgeon for evaluation.

Diagnosis

At Moolchand, we employ advanced diagnostic techniques for accurate detection:

• Ultrasound – Most common and effective for gallstone detection.
• CT Scan or MRI – Used for complex cases or unclear findings.
• Blood Tests – Check for infection, inflammation, and liver function.

Treatment Options

1. Watchful Waiting

• Asymptomatic gallstones may not require immediate treatment.
• Regular monitoring ensures no complications develop.

2. Medications

• Oral bile acid pills can dissolve small cholesterol stones.
• Limited effectiveness; typically used when surgery is not an option.

3. Surgical Treatment

• Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for symptomatic gallstones.
• Cutting-edge minimally invasive techniques reduce pain, shorten hospital stay, and accelerate recovery.
• Robotic Assisted cholecystectomy is a fast evolving treatment option

Why Choose Moolchand for Gallbladder Care?

• Superb physicians: Dr. Shiv Chopra brings vast experience in gallbladder surgery.
• Cutting-edge technology: Laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery for precision.
• Compassionate care: Personalized guidance from diagnosis to post-operative recovery.
• Integrity: Transparent advice and honest evaluation of treatment options.
• Affordable prices: Access to world-class gallbladder care without financial strain.

Final Thoughts

Gallstones can range from silent to painful, but timely diagnosis and treatment prevent serious complications such as inflammation, infection, or pancreatitis. Consulting a skilled general surgeon like Dr. Shiv Chopra at Moolchand ensures the best outcomes with expert care, advanced technology, and patient-focused attention.

Book a consultation today to assess your gallbladder health and discuss a personalized treatment plan.