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Q.

What Are the Risk Factors for Gallstones?

Related Topics: Gallstone
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HHS (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services)SUCCESS!
HHS (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services)
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A.

Risk factors for getting gallstones include:

  • Obesity. This is one of the biggest risk factors. Obesity can cause a rise in cholesterol, and can also keep the gallbladder from emptying completely.
  • Estrogen. Women who are pregnant or who take birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy have higher levels of estrogen. This can cause a rise in cholesterol, as well as a reduction in gallbladder motility.
  • Ethnic background. Certain ethnic groups, including Native Americans and Mexican-Americans, are more likely to develop gallstones.
  • Gender and age. Gallstones are more common among women and among older people.
  • Cholesterol drugs. Some cholesterol-lowering drugs increase the amount of cholesterol in bile, which may increase the chances of developing cholesterol stones.
  • Diabetes. People with diabetes tend to have higher levels of triglycerides (a type of blood fat), which is a risk factor for gallstones.
  • Rapid weight loss. If a person loses weight too quickly, his or her liver secretes extra cholesterol, which may lead to gallstones. Also, fasting may cause the gallbladder to contract less.

This answer should not be considered medical advice...down arrowThis answer should not be considered medical advice and should not take the place of a doctor’s visit. Please see the bottom of the page for more information or visit our Terms and Conditions.up arrow

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