Gallbladder Stones – Are You At Risk?

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The exact cause behind gallstones is hard to pinpoint. However, some of the time, gallbladder stone development can be attributed to genetics. If you have a family history of developing gallstones, you tend to be more at risk for contracting gallstones.

In addition to family history, some ethnic groups may be at an increased risk for developing gallstones.

Gallbladder stones can also be caused by having too much cholesterol in your body.

Additionally, research also shows that if you’re obese, your liver produces too much cholesterol, which may in turn saturate your gallbladder, which can increase your risk for developing gallbladder stones.

Gallbladder Stones

Are a woman
Are over the age of 40
Have a family history of gallstones (members of your family have had gallstones)
Are obese or losing weight rapidly
Suffer from diabetes or Crohn’s Disease
Have a poor diet high in fat and cholesterol
On medications that lower cholesterol
Have certain blood disorders
Have had a previous stomach surgery
High oestrogen levels from pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, or birth control pills
Liver disease

Yes. In fact, most people suffer from gallstones—clinically known as cholelithiasis—without experiencing any symptoms at all. Although gallstones don’t tend to go away once they form, they don’t necessarily cause problems.

However, if you suffer from any of the symptoms stated here, you may wish to get it checked out to rule out any serious underlying conditions such as Cholecystitis.