In our fast-paced lives, health often takes a backseat. Amid the complex and interconnected systems of our bodies, one organ that often goes unnoticed but plays a significant role in digestion is the gallbladder. This small pear-shaped organ located beneath the liver stores bile produced by the liver. When required, it releases bile through ducts into the small intestine, aiding fat digestion in meals. Sometimes gallstones can form due to excessive accumulation of bile salts, cholesterol, and bilirubin often leading to gallbladder removal.
Many a time, non-emergency conditions can be treated outside hospitals with medications or natural remedies. Yet, patients often fall prey to misinformation with unfounded claims in such cases. Dr Amita Jain, who is one of the best laparoscopic surgeons with specializations in gallbladder stone removal surgery debunks a few myths associated with gallbladder stones in this article.
What are some of the common myths about gallbladder stones?
1. All Gallstones Need Treatment – Not all Gallstones need treatment. Often found incidentally, they can be left alone if asymptomatic. Gallstones vary in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball. When they are small, there is no pain or discomfort experienced but as they start to grow, they may obstruct the bile duct causing complications. That’s when they need to be removed surgically. Surgery isn’t necessary if they don’t cause discomfort. Seek medical advice if symptoms arise.
2. They Always Cause Abdominal Pain – It’s a common misconception that gallstones always trigger abdominal pain. While they can cause discomfort, not everyone feels it. Symptoms like acidity or reflux are often mistaken for gallstone pain. Many people have gallstones without any symptoms. Only a small percentage develop pain or complications. However, once symptoms appear, they’re likely to recur.
3. Gallstones can be Dissolved Using Natural Remedies – Some people believe natural remedies like olive oil or lemon juice can dissolve gallstones, but there’s no scientific proof. Medical experts don’t recommend these methods. While some medicines might help with small stones, they’re not a guaranteed fix.
Natural remedies can’t reliably dissolve gallstones. Apple juice or vinegar may be healthy, but they don’t cure gallstones. While some claim success stories, they’re not backed by solid evidence. Always consult a doctor before trying any treatment for gallstones.
4. Stones will Pass through the Urine – People sometimes think gallstones can be flushed out like kidney stones, but that’s not true. Gallstones don’t pass through urine. Gallstones form in the gallbladder, not the kidneys. Drinking lots of water won’t make gallstones go away. Gallstones need different treatments, usually surgery to remove them. Trying to flush out gallstones can cause more problems. It’s better to reduce fat in your diet and exercise regularly to prevent them.
5. Gallstones cause Gallbladder Cancer – Having gallstones doesn’t mean you’ll get gallbladder cancer. While many with gallbladder cancer also have gallstones, it doesn’t prove a direct link. Scientists haven’t found solid proof that gallstones cause gallbladder cancer. Some big gallstones might slightly raise the risk, but it’s generally very low.
6. Surgery is Risky – Many people believe gallstone surgery is dangerous, but it’s actually quite safe. Complications are rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases. Keyhole surgery, known as laparoscopic cholecystectomy, is the standard method, often done as day surgery with minimal pain and downtime. Most patients have no further complications and don’t require overnight hospital stays. If considering the procedure, reading up on how to prepare for gallbladder surgery is recommended.
Only Older People Get Gallstones – The notion that only older people can get gallstones is a myth. Gallstones can affect individuals of all ages, including children and young adults. Factors like rapid weight loss, obesity, and genetics contribute to their formation in younger individuals. However, symptomatic gallstones are more common among older people, with the risk increasing dramatically after age 40. The incidence is four times higher for those aged 40 to 69 compared to younger individuals.
It is evident that understanding the truth and debunking the myths surrounding gallstones is crucial. From treatment necessity to age misconceptions, informed decisions guided by medical expertise empower individuals to navigate their health with clarity and confidence.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi