How to manage gallstones

Nov 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

Gallstone management requires a comprehensive approach, including a balanced diet, appropriate exercise, regular作息 (daily routine), medication as prescribed by a doctor, and regular check-ups. Comprehensive management can reduce gallbladder irritation, slow the progression of stones, and lower the risk of inflammatory episodes. If severe right upper abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice occurs during management, prompt medical attention at a hepatobiliary surgery department is necessary.

Adjustment and management of gallstones should be carried out through reasonable diet, appropriate exercise, regular作息, following medical advice for medication, and routine check-ups. Comprehensive management can reduce gallbladder irritation, slow the progression of stones, and lower the risk of inflammatory episodes. If severe pain in the upper right abdomen, fever, or jaundice occurs during management, prompt visit to a hepatobiliary surgery department is necessary.

1. **Balanced Diet**: Follow a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet. Avoid fried foods, fatty meats, and animal offal. Increase intake of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Use steaming, boiling, or stewing for cooking, and minimize frying. Control portion sizes and avoid overeating, which increases the burden on the gallbladder.

2. **Appropriate Exercise**: Engage in 3–4 sessions per week of mild physical activity such as brisk walking or tai chi, lasting 20–30 minutes each. Avoid strenuous exercise. Regular movement promotes metabolism, helps control body weight, reduces bile stagnation, and assists in preventing stone enlargement.

3. **Regular作息**: Maintain consistent sleep and wake times daily, ensuring 7–8 hours of sleep and avoiding late nights. A regular schedule supports normal gallbladder contraction rhythms, prevents bile retention caused by irregular routines, and reduces factors contributing to stone formation.

4. **Follow Medical Advice for Medication**: If inflammation is present or if your doctor prescribes medications for dissolving stones or promoting bile flow, take them exactly as directed in terms of dosage and duration. Do not adjust or discontinue medication without consulting your doctor. Monitor your body's response and report any adverse effects promptly.

5. **Regular Check-ups**: Undergo an ultrasound examination of the gallbladder every 6–12 months to monitor stone size, number, and gallbladder wall condition. Keep track of symptoms such as abdominal pain or bloating, which will help doctors adjust your management plan accordingly.

Daily care should also include maintaining a positive mood and avoiding extreme emotional fluctuations. Drink a moderate amount of water before meals, chew food thoroughly during meals, choose fresh ingredients, and avoid expired or spoiled food to support gallbladder health.

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Is a 14mm gallstone considered large?

A 14mm gallstone is considered relatively large, with a low probability of spontaneous passage and an increased risk of complications; therefore, close attention and adherence to medical advice for proper management are essential. In daily life, maintain a low-fat diet, reduce intake of organ meats and fried foods, avoid overeating, and ensure regular作息 (daily routines) and moderate exercise to minimize abnormal gallbladder contractions.

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Do gallstones grow quickly?

In general, the growth rate of gallstones needs to be comprehensively assessed based on factors such as stone type, patient's lifestyle habits, and underlying medical conditions. Regular ultrasound examinations are recommended to monitor changes in stone size. After initial detection, follow-up exams are advised every 6 to 12 months. Maintain a light diet, avoid overeating, and reduce consumption of animal offal and fried foods.