Gallbladder and Bile Duct Stones: Your Questions Answered
Gallstones and bile duct stones can cause intense pain and lead to serious health complications. At Vista Speciality Clinic, our team, led by Dr. Santhosh Kumar S C, a leading Gastroenterologist in Bangalore, specializes in diagnosing and treating these conditions with precision. We are committed to providing you with the best care and clear answers. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Santhosh Kumar S C, please book an appointment with Vista Speciality Clinic today.
The most common symptom of gallstones is a sudden and Severe Abdominal Pain located in the Right Upper Quadrant of the abdomen. This pain can radiate to the back or shoulder blade and may last for several minutes to a few hours. This is often referred to as a "gallbladder attack" or biliary colic. If you experience this symptom, it is vital to get an expert opinion from a specialist like Dr. Santhosh Kumar S C at Vista Speciality Clinic.
Yes, Nausea and vomiting are very common symptoms that accompany the Severe Abdominal Pain (Right Upper Quadrant) caused by gallstones. The intense pain and disruption of the digestive system can lead to significant discomfort and sickness. If you are experiencing persistent Nausea after meals, you should consult a trusted Gastroenterologist near Jayanagar for an evaluation.
Jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and eyes, is a key symptom that suggests a bile duct stone. When a gallstone moves from the gallbladder and gets lodged in the bile duct, it can block the flow of bile to the small intestine. This causes bilirubin to build up in the bloodstream, leading to Jaundice. If this occurs, it is a medical emergency that requires prompt attention from an expert at Vista Speciality Clinic.
Gallstones form in the gallbladder, while bile duct stones are either formed there or have migrated from the gallbladder to the bile duct. Gallstones may be asymptomatic, but bile duct stones often cause more serious symptoms like Jaundice and can lead to dangerous complications like infection or pancreatitis. A gastroenterologist near JP Nagar like Dr. Santhosh Kumar S C can perform the necessary tests to differentiate between the two.
An Abdominal Ultrasound is usually the first and most effective Diagnostic Test for gallstones. It uses sound waves to create an image of your gallbladder, allowing the doctor to see the stones clearly. This non-invasive and painless test is readily available at Vista Speciality Clinic and is a crucial first step in your diagnosis.
An MRCP (Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography) is a specialized type of MRI that creates detailed images of the bile ducts and pancreatic ducts. It is a highly accurate Diagnostic Test used to identify bile duct stones or other blockages that an ultrasound may not have picked up. Dr. Santhosh Kumar S C uses advanced tests like an MRCP to ensure a precise diagnosis and plan for your treatment.
An EUS (Endoscopic Ultrasound) is an advanced Diagnostic Test that uses a small ultrasound probe attached to an endoscope to get a very close-up view of the bile ducts and pancreas. It is highly effective for detecting very small bile duct stones or tumors that might be missed by other tests. This procedure is performed by our experts at Vista Speciality Clinic, a leading Gastroenterologist at Banashankari, to ensure the most accurate results.
A Cholecystectomy is a surgical procedure for Gallbladder Removal. It is the most common and definitive Treatment Option for symptomatic gallstones. Once the gallbladder is removed, gallstones can no longer form within it. Your surgeon at Vista Speciality Clinic will explain the procedure in detail and answer any questions you may have.
An ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) is a procedure used to both diagnose and treat bile duct stones. During an ERCP, a doctor uses an endoscope to access the bile ducts, where they can remove stones directly. This is a common and effective Treatment Option for bile duct stones, and it can be performed at Vista Speciality Clinic by our expert gastroenterologists.
Yes, living without a gallbladder is very manageable. The liver will simply secrete bile directly into the small intestine, bypassing the need for a storage organ. While some people may experience minor digestive changes, most patients do not have any long-term issues after a Cholecystectomy. Dr. Santhosh Kumar S C will provide you with a comprehensive post-operative plan to ensure a smooth recovery.
If you are experiencing Severe Abdominal Pain (Right Upper Quadrant), Nausea, or Jaundice, it is time to seek professional help. The team at Vista Speciality Clinic, led by Dr. Santhosh Kumar S C, offers state-of-the-art Diagnostic Tests and effective Treatment Options to help you find relief. Book an appointment with the best Gastroenterologist in Bangalore today.
