What Are The Risk Factors For Development Of Cholesterol Gallstones?

The gallbladder is a small organ that’s responsible for the production and regulation of bile that’s located on the right side of the stomach. Bile helps in digestion and when it hardens then gallstones are formed. Gallstones are one of the most common disorders of the digestive system.
 

Gallstones risk factors

Having diabetes

A person who has diabetes is more likely to develop gallstones especially diabetes type 2 which leads to obesity.  Gallbladder health is easily affected by insulin resistance, high triglyceride levels, and neuropathy all of which are present in a diabetic person.  A diabetic person should check their sugar levels frequently and maintain a healthy weight.

Age

The older a person becomes, the more his body releases more cholesterol which increases the risk of gallstones.  By age 60, 20% of women and 10% of men are affected by gallstones.  It is important at this age to pay attention to any pain or discomfort as part of staying healthy.

Gender

Women more than men are at risk of developing gallstones because of high estrogen levels.  A high estrogen level leads to an increase in the production of biliary cholesterol which leads to the formation of gallstones.  The risk increases more so when the woman is pregnant, taking hormonal birth control, or is on hormone replacement therapy.

Weight

Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing gallstones. Excess weight causes the liver to produce a lot of cholesterol which overwhelms the gallbladder thereby increasing the risk for the formation of gallstones.

Family history

Having a family history of gallstones places you at a higher risk of developing gallstones too.  Besides family history, your ethnic background can also have an impact on whether you develop gallstones or not.  Mexican -Americans and Native Americans are more likely to have a genetic susceptibility to the formation of gallstones.  Having sufficient knowledge of your family history will help you know more about your risks of developing gallstones in the bladder.
 

Gallbladder operation in Nassau County

When left unchecked, gallstones can cause grave problems such as pain, swelling, pancreatitis, and infection. One can have a gall bladder operation or gall bladder removal in Nassau County. The operation is dependent on the size and location of the gallstones and the doctor can either recommend the removal of the entire gall bladder or gallstones only.   It is also important to know what to eat and what to avoid after gallbladder surgery.