Your gallbladder is responsible for storing and releasing bile to aid in digestion. Waste in the bile can solidify in small balls ranging in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. If these gallstones get trapped in ducts, it can create painful attacks and create life-threatening consequences. Gallstone treatment in Beverly Hills from Dr. Daniel Benhuri can help you prevent and manage symptoms.
Symptoms of Gallstones
Some individuals may experience no symptoms of gallstones until these lodge into a duct and create a blockage. Common symptoms can include nausea or vomiting, sweating, jaundice, shoulder or shoulder blade pain and abdomen pain that gets worse after eating greasy or fatty foods. These painful symptoms can last from a few minutes to a few hours. If you experience these symptoms, you may want to seek emergency medical attention right away.
Causes of Gallstones
Gallstones may be caused by excess cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile. Your gallbladder may not empty enough or correctly. Complications can occur that may damage your gallbladder. These complications may include inflammation, infection, blockage of the pancreatic duct and gallbladder cancer. Treatment for most individuals typically involves surgery to remove the gallbladder. This procedure has a minimal recovery time and may include a special diet until you fully heal.
There are a few lifestyle adjustments individuals can make to prevent gallstones. Maintain a healthy weight through regular exercise and consuming a diet of high-fiber foods. Avoid skipping meals and lose weight slowly. Your doctor can recommend other options for gallstone prevention.
Diagnosis of Gallstones
There are a few tests and procedures that can accurately diagnose the presence of gallstones. Blood tests can identify signs of infection and other complications. Abdominal and endoscopic ultrasounds are beneficial for detecting gallstones. Other imaging tests may also be recommended by your doctor, depending on your condition.
Beverly Hills Gallstones Treatment
Gallstone treatment can help you relieve symptoms and protect your health. If you are experiencing symptoms, Dr. Daniel Benhuri can help provide urgent care to meet your needs. New patients are currently welcome at the Beverly Hills clinic for individuals throughout the Los Angeles area in California. Schedule an appointment today.