Should I take choleretic medication if gallstones are found during a physical examination

Whether to take choleretic medication for gallstones discovered during physical examination depends on the specific situation. If the stone is small and asymptomatic, medication is usually not necessary; If accompanied by cholestasis or chronic inflammation, short-term use of choleretic drugs can be done according to medical advice. When gallstones are small and do not cause symptoms such as biliary colic or cholecystitis, medication intervention is generally not necessary. At this point, it is recommended to adjust the dietary structure, reduce the intake of high cholesterol and high-fat foods, increase dietary fiber and moisture, and regularly undergo ultrasound examinations to observe changes in stones. Some patients can delay the progression of stones and even avoid surgery by adjusting their lifestyle. If the stones are accompanied by poor bile excretion, recurrent upper right abdominal pain, or mild cholecystitis, the doctor may prescribe choleretic drugs such as ursodeoxycholic acid capsules to assist in dissolving cholesterol stones or improving bile stasis. However, it should be noted that the medication is only effective for some cholesterol stones and requires long-term use. It may recur after discontinuation of the medication. When merging bacterial infections, antibiotics such as cefepime dispersible tablets should also be used in combination. Patients with gallstones should avoid taking choleretic drugs on their own, especially when accompanied by bile duct obstruction, abnormal liver function, or calcified stones, which may worsen the condition. Regularly eat breakfast, control weight, and avoid rapid weight loss in daily life. If there is persistent abdominal pain, fever, or jaundice, immediate medical evaluation should be sought to determine whether surgery to remove the gallbladder is necessary.