THE RISKS OF UNDIAGNOSED GALL BLADDER STONES: DOCTORS CALL FOR AWARENESS, TIMELY TREATMENT

With rising cases of health risks associated with gallstones specialists are calling for timely intervention, better awareness and lifestyle correction

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Globally, gallstone disease (cholelithiasis) is prevalent, with varying rates in different regions. In India, the prevalence of gallstones is estimated to be around 4% of the population. In contrast, studies in the West have shown a higher prevalence, with about 10% of American adults having gallstones. Within India, there are regional variations, with higher rates observed in certain areas like North and Northeast India.

What are gallstones?

Gallstones are hardened deposits in the gallbladder, and are increasingly being diagnosed across age groups in India. According to the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO), the most common types of gallstones are cholesterol stones (accounting for approximately 80% of cases, and are primarily composed of hardened cholesterol), pigment stones (dark brown or black and are made of bilirubin), and mixed stones (contain a combination of cholesterol and bilirubin, falling somewhere in between the other two types in composition). Often asymptomatic, they are typically discovered during abdominal imaging for unrelated complaints. “Many gallstones remain silent for years. But once symptomatic, patients usually present with pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, vomiting, jaundice or fever,” says Piyush Bawane, consultant — medical gastroenterology, Rela Hospital, Chennai.

A sudden onset of abdominal pain, bloating or indigestion after meals may also be initial warning signs. “People living with weight related health issues, diabetes, during pregnancy or on a high-fat diet are especially at risk,” notes Atul Sharma, clinical director of gastroenterology, Marengo Asia Hospitals, Gurugram.

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