Potential Risks and Complications of Untreated Gallstones
Untreated gallstones can lead to serious complications, emphasizing the importance of prompt medical attention. Here are the associated risks:
- Cholecystitis (Gallbladder Inflammation):
- Inflammation due to blocked bile flow.
- Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever, and infection risk.
- Bile Duct Obstruction:
- Gallstones migrating to bile ducts causing obstruction.
- Results in bile buildup, jaundice, and infection susceptibility.
- Pancreatitis:
- Gallstones blocking the pancreatic duct, leading to inflammation.
- Causes severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and can be a medical emergency.
- Cholangitis:
- Persistent bile duct obstruction causing infection (cholangitis).
- Symptoms include fever, jaundice, and abdominal pain.
- Gallstone Ileus:
- Rare blockage in the small intestine due to a migrating gallstone.
- Presents with abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Gallbladder Perforation:
- Severe inflammation leading to gallbladder perforation.