Coping with Cholecystitis and Gallstones

Author: Gao Zhan / Li Chengwei (Editor-in-Chief)
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-04-01
Features: The formation of cholecystitis and gallstones is closely related to certain lifestyle habits. In recent years, these two interconnected diseases have shown a "younger" trend. Only by changing unhealthy lifestyles, actively cooperating with medical treatment, self-monitoring, and adhering to long-term health maintenance can one effectively cope with cholecystitis and gallstones. It is not alarmist to say that gallstones are indeed a fashionable disease. We see many people holding medicine bottles, taking medicine every day, while others seek medical advice everywhere, looking for secret remedies for gallstones. Gallstones are not a disease exclusive to modern people; ancient Egyptian pharaohs were troubled by them, showing their long history. However, gallstones are so prevalent today that adults, especially women, who frequently experience upper abdominal heaviness, lower back and right shoulder soreness, and belching, should be alert to the possibility of gallstones. Many patients diagnosed with stomach diseases by doctors remain unwell for years—actually suffering from gallstones. Additionally, many gallstone attack patients are misdiagnosed as suffering from angina pectoris or coronary heart disease. Gallstones can be considered a fashionable disease among urban dwellers. Statistics show that approximately 10% of adult patients suffer from gallstones. Among middle-aged women, the incidence rate of gallstones can even reach 15%. In hospitals in Western countries and some major cities in China, the number of patients hospitalized and surgically treated for gallstones has surpassed appendicitis, making it a true surgical disease.