Gallstones
Gallstones are small, hard deposits that form in your gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ on the right side of your abdomen, just beneath your liver.
Gallstones occur when there's too much cholesterol or waste material in your bile, a digestive fluid produced by your liver.
Gallstones can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. Some people develop just one gallstone, while others develop many.
There are two types of gallstones:
- Cholesterol stones. These are made up mostly of cholesterol. Cholesterol is a substance that's found in your blood and in all your body's cells. Your liver makes some cholesterol, and you get other cholesterol from the food you eat.
- Pigment stones. These are made up of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that's a byproduct of the breakdown of red blood cells.
Most gallstones are cholesterol stones.
Gallstones can cause pain in your abdomen. If the stone moves into the duct that drains your gallbladder and liver, it can cause a blockage and severe pain.
Books discussing Gallstones
Save Your Gallbladder and what to do if you've already lost it
Sep 03, 2013 | 117 PagesIf you are experiencing gallbladder issues, this book will provide the answers regardless of whether or not you have had yours removed. With its comprehensive advice and guidance, it will help you manage your situation more effectively. Gallbladder disease can be alarming and disheartening, so it's no wonder that some people rush to have their...Learn more about Save Your Gallbladder and what to do if you've already lost it
Experts discussing Gallstones
Dr. Sandra Cabot, MD
For over four decades, a renowned medical doctor has authored more than thirty bestselling books on health, one of them being the critically acclaimed "Liver Cleansing Diet" book.As the Medical and Executive Director of the Australian Women’s Health Advisory Service, Dr. Cabot provides a valuable service to people everywhere - offering free advice via phone and online. With a distinguished Academic record, Dr. Cabot excelled in medicine and surgery from the University of Adelaide with an...Learn more about Dr. Sandra Cabot, MD
Dr. Margaret Jasinska, ND
An author, a naturopath specializing in gut health, thyroid conditions, autoimmune disease, fatty liver, and diabetes.With over two decades of clinical knowledge, Margaret Jasinska has established herself as an expert in the field of naturopathy. She is also a co-author of several publications focused on digestive health and wellness. She expertly manages her time between tending to patients at Dr. Cabot's clinic, writing, and...Learn more about Dr. Margaret Jasinska, ND