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Gallstones

At Houston's GastroDoxs Digestive Health Clinic, our expert gastroenterologists provide comprehensive gallstone evaluation with advanced imaging, personalized treatment plans, and minimally invasive solutions, delivering compassionate, same-day care to residents of Greater Houston and nearby communities for fast relief and wellness.

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Texas Medical Board
Harris County Medical Society
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
HCA Houston Healthcare
Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What are Gallstones?

Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid (bile) that form in your gallbladder. They range in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. Many people have "silent" gallstones that never cause symptoms, but if a stone blocks a bile duct, it can trigger intense pain and complications.

Common Symptoms

When gallstones become symptomatic, you may experience:

  • Sudden, intense pain in the upper right or center of the abdomen
  • Pain that radiates to the back or right shoulder blade
  • Nausea or vomiting during an attack
  • Indigestion, bloating, or gas after fatty meals
  • Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) if a stone blocks the bile duct
  • Fever or chills-sign of infection (cholecystitis)

Causes

Gallstones form when changes in bile composition or gallbladder function promote crystallization. Common risk factors include:

  • High cholesterol in bile (most cholesterol stones)
  • Excess bilirubin production (pigment stones)
  • Incomplete or infrequent gallbladder emptying
  • Obesity or rapid weight loss
  • Female sex, older age, or family history of gallstones
  • Pregnancy, high-fat diet, or certain medications
Treatment

Treatment Options for Gallstones's Disease in Jersey Village

Treatment includes medications, nutrition, lifestyle changes, and medical procedures:

  • Anti-inflammatory drugs: 5-ASA agents or corticosteroids to reduce gut inflammation.
  • Immune suppressants: Methotrexate or azathioprine to control an overactive immune response.
  • Biologic therapies: Infliximab, adalimumab, or ustekinumab targeting specific inflammatory proteins.
  • Dietary management: Low-residue, elemental, or elimination diets to ease digestive stress.
  • Nutrition support: Supplementation with vitamin B12, iron, folate, and other nutrients to correct deficiencies.
  • Stress reduction: Mindfulness, counseling, or yoga to minimize flare-triggering stress.
  • Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking to lower disease severity and complication risks.
  • Surgery: Resection of severely damaged bowel segments when medications aren't sufficient.
  • Regular monitoring: Colonoscopies, blood work, and stool tests to track disease activity and adjust treatment.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

With a focus on patient-centered care and comprehensive digestive health solutions, GastroDoxs provides expert diagnostics and effective treatment for Crohn’s Disease. Our approach is rooted in compassionate, personalized care-tailoring medication, nutrition, and lifestyle plans to your unique needs. Book an appointment today with our Jersey Village specialists and take the first step toward lasting relief and improved quality of life.

1k

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1k patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are early signs of gallstones?

Early signs of gallstones often include upper abdominal pain, especially after eating fatty or greasy foods. You may also experience bloating, nausea, or a feeling of fullness.

Can gallstones go away on their own?

Some small gallstones may pass without causing symptoms. However, recurring pain or digestive issues often require medical treatment or surgery.

How are gallstones diagnosed?

Gallstones are most commonly diagnosed using an abdominal ultrasound, which is non-invasive and highly effective. In some cases, CT scans or MRCP may be used for further evaluation.

Are gallstones dangerous?

Yes, untreated gallstones can lead to serious complications like gallbladder infection (cholecystitis), pancreatitis, or bile duct obstruction. Timely diagnosis and treatment are important.

Can I live without a gallbladder?

Yes. Many people live healthy lives without a gallbladder. The liver continues to produce bile, which flows directly into the intestines to aid digestion.

Is surgery always needed?

No, not always. If gallstones are "silent" and not causing symptoms, they may simply be monitored. However, symptomatic gallstones often require surgery.

What foods trigger gallstone pain?

Fatty, fried, and highly processed foods can trigger gallstone attacks. Meals rich in saturated fats are especially known to provoke symptoms.

How long does gallbladder surgery take?

Laparoscopic gallbladder surgery typically takes 1 to 2 hours. It is minimally invasive, and most patients can return home the same day.

Will I need special care after surgery?

Post-surgery care is generally simple. Patients may need to eat smaller, low-fat meals initially. Most return to normal activities within 1-2 weeks.

When should I see a gallstone specialist in Houston?

If you have recurring abdominal pain, nausea, or digestive issues after eating, it's time to consult a gallstone specialist for diagnosis and personalized care.

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