Gallstone Formation, Common In Obese Children - Part 2

By Super

Tuesday, April 3, 2012, 16:58

Even an infant can be found with Gallstones which results from a variety of birth defects of red blood cells that cause these cells to break down prematurely (hemolytic anemia). This hemoglobin gets converted to bilirubin, which accumulates to form stone, under certain conditions. The gallstone in this particular age group usually dissolves by itself because it is nothing but 'bile sludge", which is often misinterpreted as gall stone. This sludge resolves on its own within a short span of time. Infants with gallstones may or may not be symptomatic. Symptoms include Cholestatic jaundice, transient alcoholic stools, abdominal pain, and sepsis.

According to Dr. Ashok Mittal, Sr. Laparoscopic Surgeon, R G Stone Urology & Laparoscopy Hospital, “Gallstone disease is one of the most common digestive diseases. Obese children are at a higher risk of gallstones because in such cases, the liver over-produces cholesterol, which is delivered into the bile and causes it to become supersaturated resulting in stone formation. Gallstone formation is are related to diet, particularly fat intake. Therefore it is advisable to take healthy diet, particularly food rich in fiber. One must avoid excessive intake of Egg yolk, Butter, Cheese, Processed Meat, Chicken, spices and fast food. Besides this, parents must emphasize on regular exercises for children and make them drink plenty of water."

“The effective treatment for gallstones includes removal of stones (cholecystolithotomy) or removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). Laparoscopic cholecystectomy has become the preferred method of management for symptomatic gallbladder disease in children. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy is associated with a shorter hospital stay, rapid diet resumption, and reduced postoperative discomfort, with minimal morbidity, “said Dr.Mittal.

“Since the only function of the gallbladder is to store bile, it is not a vital part of the digestive system. Without gallbladder, the bile will simply move directly from the liver to the intestine. Certain medications can also dissolve gallstones, but they can take months to years to treat. Beside this drinking beet juice or apple juice is believed to help in dissolving small-sized gallstone formations. And for infants no such procedures are required because gallstones in infants resolve on their own, added Dr. Mittal.

“I used to writhe with pain in my abdomen and consulted few doctors, but all in vain. That shooting pain was unbearable. But as soon as I consulted R.G. Stone, I was diagnosed with gallstone formation and immediately the treatment started. And finally I got rid of that pain for which I am very thankful to R.G. Stone.", said Saumya Mishra (16 years) (name changed).

“Along with the latest technologies and amenities, what impresses me the most are the doctors and assisting staff of R.G Stone. They have an immense amount of patience and the way they care for their patients is truly touching. I am overwhelmed with the compassion and concern they have for every patient of theirs." said Mr. Reshwal (Father of Brijesh 13 years old patient)