“Do small gallstones require treatment?”
I was diagnosed with small gallstones. Do small gallstones require treatment?
5 Answers
The size of the gallstones does not usually play into this determination, unless they are larger than 2 cm. Small gallstones, may pass through the gallbladder, or can cause blockage of the duct, which leads to pain, nausea, bloating, and a host of other uncomfortable symptoms. If you are not having any symptoms, then your gallstones can be left alone.
Only if you have symptoms from it which are typically pain on right upper abdomen, nausea, and vomiting after a fat predominant meal or a fried meal.
Only if they are thought to be causing symptoms like pain.
If there is pain or any GI issues.
If the gallstones cause symptoms, treatment (which is surgery) is recommended. The size does not make a difference as to whether or not treatment is recommended. Large stones may cause no symptoms; small stones may cause horrible symptoms.
