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| Topic: |
digestive diseases (dd) |
| Title: |
Gallstones. |
| Author: |
n/a |
| Source: |
Bethesda, MD: National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. July 2007. 8 p. |
| Availability: |
Available from National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 2 Information Way, Bethesda, MD 20892. Phone: 1-800-438-5383. Email: nddic@info.niddk.nih.gov. Website: www.niddk.nih.gov. Price: Single copies available free of charge. Order No. DD-97. |
| Abstract: |
This fact sheet provides a wealth of information about gallstones, which are small, pebble-like substances that develop in the gallbladder. Gallstones form when liquid bile stored in the gallbladder hardens. Bile is made in the liver and stored in the gallbladder until the body needs it. The fact sheet describes the different types of gallstones, symptoms and complications of gallstones, the causes of gallstones, diagnostic tests that may be used to confirm the presence of gallstones, and treatment strategies including surgery and nonsurgical therapies such as oral dissolution therapy and contact dissolution therapy. Gallstones are more common among older adults; women; American Indians; Mexican Americans; people with diabetes; those with a family history of gallstones; people who are overweight, obese, or who undergo rapid weight loss; and those taking cholesterol-lowering drugs. Gallbladder attacks often occur after eating a meal, especially one high in fat. The symptoms of gallstones may mimic those of other problems, including a heart attack, so an accurate diagnosis is important. Laparoscopic surgery to remove the gallbladder is the most common treatment. A final brief section describes the research aims in this area. The fact sheet concludes with a list of resource organizations through which readers can obtain additional information, and a description of the goals and activities of the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. 1 figure. 1 table. 3 references. |
| Format: |
Factsheet |
| Language: |
English. |
| Major Keywords: |
Digestive System Diseases. Gallstones. Symptoms. Etiology. Risk Factors. Complications. Diagnosis. Patient Care Management. Therapy. |
| Minor Keywords: |
Laparoscopy. Surgical Techniques. Dissolution Therapy. Gallbladder. Physiology. Pathology. Drug Effects. Cholesterol. Diagnostic Tests. |
| Publication Number: |
DDDC10385. |
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