The discomfort that appears after meals should not always be ignored. In some cases, especially when the discomfort appears after eating fatty foods, it may indicate the beginning of gallstones — a very common condition that can progress to serious conditions if left untreated.

According to Dr. Iuri Tamasauskas, coordinator of General Surgery at Hospital Albert Sabin (HAS-SP), the problem can develop discreetly over the years. “Gallbladder stones are often an insidious, silent disease that can take years to manifest. […]”he explains.

First signs of gallstones

When they appear, the symptoms The initial signs of gallstones are usually mild and easily confused with poor digestion. Abdominal pain after meals, a feeling of fullness, nausea and slow digestion are some of the most common signs, generally after eating fatty foods.

“Often the patient lives with this discomfort thinking it is something temporary, but these signs deserve attention. The ideal is to seek evaluation for early diagnosis and prevent the progression of the disease”, advises the doctor.

Condition can progress to more serious conditions

Contrary to what many people think, the tendency is for the condition to repeat itself and, over time, to worsen. “This situation could evolve into a infection of the gallbladder, called acute cholecystitis. Furthermore, a stone can come out of the gallbladder and obstruct the bile ducts, leading to more serious problems, such as pancreatitis or cholangitis”, warns Dr. Iuri Tamasauskas.

Treatment for gallstones

Surgery for gallstones is recommended mainly when the patient presents symptoms. The procedure, called cholecystectomy, is considered standard and quite safe. “When the patient already has symptoms, surgical indication is usually the best way to avoid new crises and complications. It is a safe surgery, widely performed and with good results”, says the specialist.

In most cases, recovery is quick, especially when the surgery It is performed using laparoscopy, a minimally invasive technique. In a few days, the patient can resume their usual activities, always with medical guidance. “The main point is not to wait for the disease to progress. The earlier the treatment, the lower the risk of complications and the smoother the recovery”, concludes Dr. Iuri Tamasauskas.

By Renata Sbrissa