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Gallstones: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatments

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Gallstones can differ in type and severity:

Cholesterol stones: The most common type, usually yellow-green

Pigment stones: Smaller and darker, made of excess bilirubin

Silent gallstones: Present without symptoms, often found incidentally

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can gallstones go away on their own?

Small gallstones may pass on their own, but many remain and may require treatment if symptoms occur.

What is the treatment for gallstones?

Options include dietary changes, medications to dissolve stones, or surgery (most commonly laparoscopic cholecystectomy to remove the gallbladder).

Are gallstones dangerous?

They can be if they block bile flow, leading to infections or inflammation (cholecystitis), or cause pancreatitis.

Can you live without a gallbladder?

Yes, people live normal lives without a gallbladder. Bile flows directly from the liver to the intestine after removal.

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