Gall

Gall is a term used in medicine to refer to a hardened deposit within the body, most commonly formed from bile within the gallbladder. This article will provide a detailed overview of gall, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Causes

Gall is primarily caused by an imbalance in the substances that make up bile. This imbalance can lead to the formation of crystals, which can eventually harden into gallstones. The primary substances involved in this process are cholesterol, bilirubin, and bile salts. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that can form crystals if present in high concentrations. Bilirubin is a waste product produced by the liver, which can also form crystals if present in high concentrations. Bile salts are substances that help to break down fats in the digestive system, and can contribute to gall formation if they are out of balance with the other substances in bile.

Symptoms

The symptoms of gall can vary depending on the size and location of the gallstones. Some people with gallstones may not experience any symptoms at all. However, common symptoms can include pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. Jaundice is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, and can occur if a gallstone blocks the bile ducts, preventing bile from being excreted from the body.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gall typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests. During the physical examination, a doctor may check for tenderness in the upper right abdomen. Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or a CT scan, can help to visualize the gallstones. In some cases, blood tests may also be used to check for complications of gallstones, such as infection or pancreatitis.

Treatment

Treatment for gall can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and the size and location of the gallstones. In some cases, no treatment may be necessary. However, if the gallstones are causing symptoms, treatment options can include medication to dissolve the gallstones, or surgery to remove the gallbladder. Cholecystectomy is a common surgical procedure used to treat gallstones.

See Also

• Cholecystectomy
• Jaundice
• Bilirubin
• Cholesterol

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