"gallstone" の定義と意味

What is a "gallstone"?

A gallstone is a hard, pebble-like object that forms in the gallbladder, a small organ located under the liver. These stones can vary in size and may be made of cholesterol, bilirubin, or other substances found in bile. Gallstones can develop when there is an imbalance in the chemicals that make up bile, which is a fluid produced by the liver to help digestion. In many cases, gallstones do not cause any symptoms and may be discovered accidentally during medical tests for other conditions. However, if a gallstone becomes stuck in a tube that carries bile from the gallbladder to the small intestine, it can cause sudden and intense pain in the upper abdomen, known as a gallbladder attack. Other symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and jaundice, which is the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Treatment for gallstones may involve dietary changes, medications to dissolve the stones, or surgical removal of the gallbladder in more serious cases.