What kind of symptoms… might indicate gallstones?
Dr. Sujin Sukahut, General Surgeon at Phyathai Nawamin Hospital, notes that “A clear way to observe the symptoms is intermittent abdominal pain, with feelings of fullness that come and go, pain around the epigastric area, the upper chest, or in some cases, radiating to the back.” Only about 50% of patients with this condition show symptoms. Another observation is that although the pain resembles gastritis, it seems to improve after taking medicine but returns after a while. At this point, the doctor will recommend an ultrasound to check for other conditions. “The liver and intestines need to be examined, as gallstones can also be found.”
Who… is at high risk?
In fact, the doctor says gallstones are more likely to be found in women who are somewhat overweight compared to others. “Because women tend to accumulate fat and cholesterol, which are components of bile, and elderly patients with high blood lipid levels also have a higher chance of developing gallstones.”
If found, don’t endure the pain, get surgery immediately
In elderly cases, the doctor recommends gallstone surgery to completely cure the condition. However, if the patient is not ready, whether physically or due to responsibilities, symptomatic treatment with antacids and digestive aids can be given.
Gallstone surgery nowadays leaves only tiny scars
The doctor explains the innovation in gallstone surgery: “Currently, the surgery is done laparoscopically, with incisions only 1-2 centimeters in size around the navel, upper chest, epigastric area, and lower ribs, about 3-4 ports, to insert instruments into the abdominal cavity to remove the gallbladder.” This innovation benefits patients in many ways, including smaller wounds, less pain than traditional methods, faster recovery, and quicker return to daily life without long hospital stays.
No need to worry… about life without a gallbladder
For those worried about the effects of living without a gallbladder, the doctor says “Initially, there may be some diarrhea because bile produced by the liver flows directly into the intestines, reducing bile concentration. But within 2-3 months, patients will adjust and return to normal life.”
Dr. Sujin Sukahut
General Surgeon
Surgical Center, Phyathai Nawamin Hospital
