Cholelithiasis is the formation of gallstones, which are composed of cholesterol, calcium salts, and bile pigments. When gallstones block the flow of bile, the gallbladder becomes swollen, leading to the possibility of pain, inflammation, or infection.

Causes of Cholelithiasis

Cholelithiasis happen when your bile has too much cholesterol, bile salts or bilirubin. Stones also form when bile sits too long in your gallbladder. People who are overweight or have illnesses like diabetes have a higher risk of developing stones. Native Americans, Hispanics, or people who have a family history of gallstones are also a higher risk. Some rapid weight loss diets or fasting may increase your risk of gallstones.

Symptoms of Cholelithiasis

Biliary colic is the main symptoms of the cholelithiasis. Biliary colic is the severe pain in the belly. Other symptoms of cholelithiasis include:

Fast heartbeat.
Bloating.
Gas and stomachache.
Vomiting.
Nausea.
Jaundice.
Feeling bad after eating spicy foods.
Clay-colored stools.
Nausea and vomiting.
Heartburn.
Excess gas.
Abdominal indigestion.
Abdominal fullnes.
Abdominal pain, usually in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen.

Diagnosis of Cholelithiasis

Blood Tests.
ERCP is also called endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography. It is a test done during an endoscopy (end-oss-kuh-p) to find stones, tumors, or other reasons you may be having problems.
HIDA scan is a nuclear medicine test. Radioactive material is given in IV fluids. Then x-rays are taken to help caregivers find blockages.
Oral cholecystography is a test where you are given a shot or take pills with a special dye in them. X-rays are then taken over time. The test shows caregivers your gallbladder and any stones that might be blocking the ducts. Some people are also allergic to this kind of dye. Tell your caregiver if you are allergic to shellfish (lobster, crab, or shrimp).
Ultrasound may also used to determine the diseases.

Treatment of Cholelithiasis

Medicines are effective to remove the cholelithiasis pain. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery may help to remove the gallstones. Urodeoxycholic acid is a successful medical therapy in case of cholelithiasis develops from cholesterol. Catheter is transmitted by abdominal wall and gallbladder in contact dissolution. Catheter removes the gallstones quickly. Electrohydraulic shock wave lithotripsy is also effective and successful to treat this disease.

Prevention Tips of Cholelithiasis

The best ways to prevent Cholelithiasis are :

You should eat foods which contain low fat.
You should lose some weight.
You should avoid oily, spicy foods.
If you have symptoms of gallstones, you have to go to the health care provider immediately.
You should get information like causes, symptoms and treatment of gallstones from your doctor.

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