Ailments and Situations - Gallstones - Causes

 

Causes:

As previously mentioned, gallstones form as a result of the crystallization of cholesterol that combines with other bile compounds, forming lumps inside the gallbladder.

Additional risk factors for developing gallstones include high cholesterol levels, high insulin levels, a Western diet, and being overweight. Gallstones also tend to run in families (genetic predisposition).

 
What to Expect:

As previously mentioned, gallstone attacks may occur once the stone starts to travel from the gallbladder into either the cystic duct or bile duct. Symptoms often occur after eating fried or fatty foods. NOTE: If the stone does not drop back and blocks the flow of bile, serious damage may occur to your liver, pancreas, or gallbladder. You must seek immediate medical attention if a gallbladder attack persists and/or your skin and the whites of your eyes turn yellow.