Gallstones are a common health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. These are bile deposits that have solidified and accumulated in the gallbladder. The size of gallstones can range from as minute as a sand grain to as large as a golf ball. Gallstone accumulation sometimes leads to various symptoms and complications.
Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms like intense abdominal pain, yellow colour of skin and eyes, high fever with chills, etc. The physician will recommend some gallstone diagnosis procedures to confirm the condition.
Diagnosis of Gallstones
Gallstone diagnosis is crucial for planning a treatment course. Some of the diagnostic tests include:
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Ultrasonography:
The most standard and non-invasive procedure for the detection of gallstones. It is done using an ultrasound scanning machine. High-frequency sound waves are employed to produce gallbladder images on a computer.
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CT Scan:
A computed tomography (CT) scan produces clear cross-sectional photos of the gallbladder. This assists in identifying any gallstones, mainly when other diagnostic procedures are inconclusive.
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HIDA Scan:
A hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scan is an imaging procedure, where a scanning camera is used to trace the movement of an injected radiotracer. The radioactive substance moves with the bile. This helps to evaluate the gall bladder.
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Blood examinations:
Blood examination is done to check for infections or other diseases caused by gallstones. High levels of liver enzymes or bilirubin might reveal a blockage in the bile ducts induced by gallstones.
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Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP):
This procedure combines endoscopy and a specialised X-ray technique called fluoroscopy to produce a clear image of the gall bladder. This helps the doctor to look for gallstones.
Conclusion
If you or somebody you know is experiencing gallstone-related symptoms, you must consult a healthcare specialist for a formal evaluation and diagnosis. If the symptoms are severe and the diagnostic tests show gallstone deposition, the doctor may recommend surgery to remove the gallbladder or give medications to dissolve the gallstones. Having health insurance will help you cover the expenses for treatment and diagnostic tests.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.