Can gallstone pain be treated with surgery?

Sep 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

In general, whether surgery is appropriate for gallstone-related pain depends on a comprehensive assessment of the patient's specific condition, overall health status, and surgical risks. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. When pain arises, patients should seek medical care immediately and avoid self-administering painkillers, as this may mask symptoms. After seeking medical help, patients should actively cooperate with doctors in evaluating their health status to determine whether they are suitable candidates for surgery.

If gallstone pain frequently recurs, with each episode being severe and prolonged, and cannot be effectively relieved by medication, surgery may be considered—provided the patient is in good general health and has no major contraindications such as severe heart or lung disease, liver or kidney failure, and if the surgical risk is low. Timely surgery removes the diseased gallbladder, completely resolving the pain caused by stones and preventing recurrent episodes or complications such as cholecystitis and bile duct obstruction.

If the gallstone pain is a first-time occurrence, mild in intensity, and quickly relieved with medication, or if the patient is in poor general health with significant underlying diseases where surgical risks outweigh potential benefits, surgery is not recommended temporarily. In such cases, symptoms can initially be managed with medications, dietary adjustments, and close monitoring of disease progression. Surgery may be reconsidered later when the patient’s physical condition improves and surgical risks are reduced.

When pain occurs, prompt medical consultation is essential; do not self-administer painkillers, as this may mask the condition. After seeking care, actively cooperate with your doctor to evaluate your overall health and determine eligibility for surgery. Strictly follow medical advice regarding dietary adjustments before and after surgery, avoiding high-fat and high-cholesterol foods. If surgery is not immediately performed, regular follow-up exams are necessary to monitor stone size and gallbladder status, and any abnormalities should prompt immediate medical attention.

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What foods should patients with gallstones avoid eating?

In general, to avoid stimulating gallbladder contraction and worsening their condition, patients with gallstones should avoid foods high in cholesterol and fat, spicy and irritating foods, alcoholic beverages, and overly sweet foods. In daily life, in addition to controlling their diet, gallstone patients should also maintain regular meal times and avoid binge eating or prolonged fasting.

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What meats can patients with gallstones eat?

In general, to reduce the burden on the gallbladder, patients with gallstones should consume low-fat, easily digestible meats such as skinless poultry, fish, lean pork, lean beef, and rabbit meat. In daily life, in addition to choosing appropriate types of meat, patients should avoid frying or braising when cooking; instead, they should prefer light methods such as steaming, boiling, or stewing, and also control their portion sizes.

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Will skipping breakfast lead to gallstones?

In general, whether skipping breakfast leads to gallstones depends on individual dietary habits and physical condition. In daily life, it is advisable to develop a habit of eating breakfast regularly. Breakfast should include whole grains, high-quality protein, and vegetables to promote normal bile emptying; avoid prolonged fasting or overeating to reduce the risk of bile stasis; and undergo regular abdominal ultrasound examinations.

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Is a 6mm gallstone severe?

In general, whether a 6 mm gallstone is serious depends on the patient's specific symptoms and presence of complications. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, it is important to maintain a low-fat diet and avoid fried foods, animal offal, and similar items; eat meals regularly, avoiding overeating or prolonged fasting; and undergo regular abdominal ultrasound examinations.