Difference between Gall-bladder stones and Kidney stones

In the human body, the gallbladder is an organ that is closely connected to the functioning of the liver. It serves as storage for bile secreted by the liver, which is then transported to the small intestine to aid digestion.

The kidney is a vital organ. It removes waste and harmful substances from the bloodstream and transforms them to urine.

Stones can form in the gallbladder and kidney as a result of the foods and beverages we eat. In both circumstances, the stone can be as little as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. Furthermore, nausea, vomiting, restlessness, fever, chills, feeling sweaty, pain under the ribs, and pain between the shoulder blades are all symptoms that both diseases share. However, there are certain variances between them so know the exact difference between gall-bladder stones and kidney stones.

 

Location:

Gallbladder stones occur in the gallbladder and prevent bile from reaching the digestive tract.

The urinary tract is where kidney stones develop. They pass through the ureters and obstruct urine flow.

 

Composition:

Cholesterol, bile salts, and bilirubin make up gall stones.

Calcium, phosphate, oxalate, and uric acid crystals combine to form kidney stones.

 

Contributing foods:

Gallstones can be caused by a diet high in cholesterol and harmful fats. Fried snacks, refined and processed foods, high-fat red meat, and whole-milk dairy goods like butter, cream, and cheese are all examples of this and may also lead to obesity.

Kidney stones – Food high in sodium, calcium, phosphates, or oxalates, such as beets, tea, tomato, rhubarb, practically all nuts, spinach, and chocolate, can cause kidney stones. Kidney stones can form over time if you consume too many of these foods and drink too little water.

 

Risk groups:

Gallstones — Hispanic and Native American-Indian women are more likely to have gallstones, especially if they are obese, diabetic, or have lost weight quickly.

Kidney stones — Middle-aged men of all races are more likely to develop kidney stones, especially if they have a family history of kidney stones, are on certain medications, or have a health condition that causes reduced urine production.

 

Location of Pain:

Sharp or strong pain is felt in the upper right and centre of the abdomen when gallstones occur.

Sharp or strong pain in the sides and lower half of the buttocks, as well as a radiating discomfort in the lower abdomen or groyne area, are all symptoms of kidney stones.

 

Unique symptoms:

Gallstones can induce jaundice, which is characterised by yellowish skin and eyes.

The pain from kidney stones comes in waves rather than being constant. Hematuria, or blood in the urine, is also a possibility.

 

Recurrence:

Gallstones – Because the chance of gallstones returning is great, the doctor may recommend removing the gallbladder after a few instances. Removing the gallbladder is not a problem because one can live without it.

Kidney stones – Nearly half of the men who have previously experienced a kidney stone are at risk of a recurrence.

 

Treatment:

Oral medicine is usually used to dissolve gall stones. However, if they continue to occur or if the discomfort or symptoms are severe, the gallbladder surgeon may propose that the gallbladder be removed entirely. This is accomplished via laparoscopic cholecystectomy, which is a minimally invasive treatment. Following that, bile fluids travel directly from the liver into the small intestine, bypassing the gall bladder as a reserve.

If the kidney stone is little, it will usually pass through the urine if you drink enough water. Painkillers are administered to alleviate the discomfort. If the stone has become quite large, lithotripsy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure, is used. Shock waves are transmitted at the stone\’s location, causing it to break down into tiny fragments that are subsequently washed out through the urine.

 

Prevention:

A balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats will help prevent gallbladder stones. Food’s high in harmful fats and cholesterol should be avoided as much as possible.

Kidney stones can be avoided by drinking enough water and eating fewer foods high in oxalates. If you are at risk of kidney stones, a general & laparoscopic surgeon will advise you on what foods to eat and what foods to avoid.

 

Conclusion

Don\’t panic if you or a loved one are diagnosed with gallstones or bladder stones. Consult a reputable general & laparoscopic surgeon. He or she will accurately assess your problem and advice a course of treatment for rapid healing and rehabilitation.