Gallstones in Arizona
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Find a ProviderWhat are gallstones?
Gallstones are hardened particles of bile in your gallbladder and bile ducts. Gallstones typically form when there is an abnormally high level of cholesterol or bilirubin in the bile. When gallstones lodge in the bile ducts of the biliary tract, you may experience sudden pain in the upper right abdomen. This condition is commonly referred to as a gallbladder attack or biliary colic. Some gallstones do not cause any kind of symptoms and will not require medical treatment. However, gallstones can lead to potentially deadly complications like gallbladder inflammation, blockage of the pancreatic duct, pancreatitis, and sometimes an increased risk of gallbladder cancer. If you have gallstones or suspect you might have gallstones, you can partner with an expert gastroenterologist through Arizona Digestive Heath. Our providers diagnose and offer treatment for gallstones in Phoenix, AZ.
What are the symptoms of gallstones?
Some gallstones may not cause any symptoms. The gallstones that do cause symptoms may cause a person to exhibit:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden pain in the upper right abdomen
- Fever
- Jaundice
- Change in urine color
- Change in stool color such as pale stools
If you are experiencing sudden abdominal pain or any combination of the above symptoms, please seek medical health immediately. You can locate an expert gastroenterologist through Arizona Digestive Health. We have providers who can care for patients with gallstones in Phoenix, AZ.
How are gallstones treated?
In the event your gallstones are not causing any symptoms, you may not require treatment. However, should you be experiencing a gallbladder attack or other potentional complication of gallstones then several different treatment methods may be recommended immediately when you see your Arizona Digestive Health provider. These treatments include:
- Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP): This procedure combines an upper gastroinetstinal endoscopy and x-rays to remove gallstones lodged in the bile ducts.
- Oral dissolution therapy: Medications are taken to break up gallstones. This treatment works best with smaller gallstones and will likely not be recommended in an emergency.
- Shock wave lithotripsy: Gallstones are blasted into smaller pieces. This treatment may be used in conjunction with oral dissolution therapy.
- Cholecystectomy: Surgical removal of the gallbladder. This is one of the most common surgeries performed in the United States.
The formation of gallstones might be prevented by adjusting your lifestyle habits. For more information on the prevention of gallstones in Phoenix, AZ, please contact our location and request a consultation with our providers.
Diagnosis and treatment for gallstones
If you are at risk for or have developed gallstones, our providers are here to help. Together with the GI specialists at Arizona Digestive Health, you can find a treatment path that will assist you in attaining optimal wellness. If you or someone you love has symptoms of gallstones in Phoenix, AZ, please reach out to our location today to request a consultation with our providers as soon as possible.
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