We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Diet

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

How do I Prevent a Gallstone Attack?

By Meshell Powell
Updated: Mar 03, 2024
Views: 18,120
Share

The gallbladder is a small organ that helps in the process of digestion. The primary function of the gallbladder is to store a digestive liquid called bile, which is produced by the liver. If this bile hardens or crystallizes, painful stones may develop in the gallbladder. A few lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, may help to prevent a gallstone attack. In patients who are prone to having gallbladder problems, medications may be prescribed by the doctor to help prevent the chances of a future gallstone attack.

A gallstone attack typically causes pain in the upper right portion of the abdomen. This pain may also radiate upward to the right shoulder. If this pain lasts longer than five hours or if nausea and vomiting accompany the pain, a doctor should be seen immediately. In some cases, the gallbladder may need to be surgically removed.

Maintaining a healthy weight is an important step in trying to prevent a gallstone attack. Patients who are overweight have a greater chance of developing gallstones. Rapid weight loss may also cause gallstones to form, so it is important to lose weight slowly and responsibly. The gallbladder patient should consult a doctor when attempting to develop a healthy eating plan.

Eating certain foods may help to prevent a gallbladder attack. Some healthy choices for patients with gallbladder issues include sweet potatoes, green beans, and grapes. Avocados, lemons, and tomatoes are good choices in maintaining a healthy gallbladder as well.

Patients with gallbladder issues are often advised to avoid certain foods in order to prevent a gallstone attack. Some of these foods often include any fried foods or foods containing saturated fats. Eggs and dairy products may trigger a gallbladder attack in some patients. Gluten, a wheat-based protein, is often a trigger for those with gallbladder problems, as is cabbage. Chocolate, alcohol, and caffeine may also need to be avoided.

Some patients who are particularly prone to developing gallstones may be prescribed a medication that is aimed at dissolving the stones and preventing future attacks. Unfortunately, it sometimes takes several years of therapy with this type of medication for the stones to be dissolved enough to no longer cause problems. There may also be uncomfortable medication side effects, including stomach discomfort and diarrhea. The patient should discuss all possible treatment options as well as potential side effects with a doctor before deciding upon the proper type of individualized treatment.

Share
The Health Board is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.thehealthboard.com/how-do-i-prevent-a-gallstone-attack.htm
Copy this link
The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

The Health Board, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.