Gallbladder stones, also known as gallstones, are often overlooked until they cause severe pain or complications. These small, pebble-like substances form in the gallbladder, a small organ beneath the liver, and can range from being completely asymptomatic to triggering emergency surgeries.
To shed light on this critical health issue, we spoke with Dr. Suman Kumar Shrestha, a leading Laparoscopic & General Surgeon at Nepal National Hospital (NNH) in Kalanki, Kathmandu. With years of surgical experience and deep expertise in gastrointestinal health, Dr. Shrestha emphasizes the importance of early detection, proper diagnosis, and timely treatment of gallstones.
What Are Gallstones?
Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid, mainly cholesterol and bilirubin, that form in the gallbladder. These stones can vary in size from a grain of sand to a golf ball. While some people may carry gallstones without ever knowing it, others may experience intense abdominal pain and complications that require immediate medical intervention.
“Gallstones may seem harmless at first, especially if they don’t cause pain,” says Dr. Shrestha. “But they have the potential to turn life-threatening if they block bile ducts or lead to infections.”
Common Causes and Risk Factors
According to Dr. Shrestha, gallstones can form due to multiple reasons:
- Excess cholesterol in bile
- Imbalance in bile composition
- Obesity or rapid weight loss
- Pregnancy
- Liver disease
- Genetics and family history
Women, especially those over 40, are more prone to developing gallstones due to hormonal influences. Diets high in fat and low in fiber also increase the risk significantly.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Gallstones are notorious for being “silent”. However, when they do cause symptoms, these may include:
- Sudden, intense pain in the upper right abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting
- Back pain between the shoulder blades
- Fever and chills if an infection is present
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Dr. Shrestha warns, “One of the most dangerous aspects of gallstones is their unpredictability. A person may feel perfectly fine one day and end up in the emergency room the next.”
Why Early Diagnosis Matters?
Early diagnosis can prevent complications such as:
- Cholecystitis (inflammation of the gallbladder)
- Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
- Bile duct obstruction, leading to severe infections
Dr. Shrestha recommends regular check-ups and abdominal ultrasounds, especially for people with risk factors. “If we detect stones early, we can manage them more effectively and avoid complications.”
Treatment Options at Nepal National Hospital
At Nepal National Hospital, Dr. Suman Kumar Shrestha and his team offer world-class diagnosis and treatment for gallstones. The most common and effective treatment is laparoscopic cholecystectomy a minimally invasive surgery to remove the gallbladder.
“Laparoscopic surgery is safe, efficient, and involves less recovery time,” explains Dr. Shrestha. “At NNH, we use the latest techniques and equipment to ensure the best outcomes for our patients.”
Other treatments may include:
- Medications to dissolve smaller stones (used rarely)
- Endoscopic procedures in complicated cases
- Dietary changes and weight management to prevent recurrence
Life After Gallbladder Surgery
Most people live a normal, healthy life without a gallbladder. The liver continues to produce bile, but it flows directly into the small intestine.
“Our patients often return to work within a week or two after laparoscopic surgery,” says Dr. Shrestha. “Recovery is quick, and complications are rare when performed in a proper hospital setting.”
Patient Stories: A Wake-Up Call
At NNH, several patients have come in with advanced gallstone complications simply because they ignored the symptoms or delayed seeking help.
Dr. Shrestha recalls a recent case: “A young woman came to us with severe abdominal pain and high fever. She had ignored recurring discomfort for months. We diagnosed acute cholecystitis and performed emergency surgery. Had she delayed further, it could have been fatal.”
These stories serve as reminders: don’t wait. If you have symptoms, get checked.
Prevention Tips
To reduce your risk of gallstones:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced, low-fat, high-fiber diet
- Avoid skipping meals
- Stay active
- Manage underlying conditions like diabetes and liver disease
Dr. Shrestha emphasizes: “Preventing gallstones starts with awareness. Know the signs, live healthy, and don’t hesitate to consult a doctor.”
Why Choose Nepal National Hospital?
Located in Kalanki, Kathmandu, Nepal National Hospital offers state-of-the-art care across various medical specialties. With a commitment to excellence and patient-centered service, the hospital is staffed with experienced surgeons like Dr. Suman Kumar Shrestha who bring compassion and precision to every procedure.
- Advanced diagnostic tools
- Expert surgical teams
- 24/7 emergency care
- Affordable, transparent pricing
“At NNH, we don’t just treat the problem; we care for the person,” says Dr. Shrestha. “That makes all the difference.”
Final Takeaway
Gallbladder stones may seem minor until they strike. Understanding the risks, recognizing the symptoms, and seeking early medical attention can prevent major health crises.
Don’t wait for pain to become your wake-up call. Get informed. Get checked.
For more information or to consult Dr. Suman Kumar Shrestha:
📌 Location: Kalanki, Kathmandu
📞 Call Us: 977-01-5225101, 01-5225102, 01-5225202
☎️ Free Hotline Number: 1147
Stay informed. Stay safe. Share this blog to spread awareness.
Nepal National Hospital — Your Health, Our Priority.
