Gallbladder polyps are small growths that protrude from the inner lining of the gallbladder. Although in the majority of cases, gallbladder polyps are benign (non-cancerous), but it does not rule out the growth of polyps that are malignant (cancerous).
Gallbladder polyps can be found incidentally during an examination for other diseases or health conditions. The size of the polyp found will determine its handling and possible growth.
Recognize the Causes of Gallbladder Polyps
The exact cause of gallbladder polyps is not known, but there are various factors that can increase the risk of these polyps, including:
- Age
- Gender
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Congenital polyposis syndrome
- Chronic hepatitis B
Although gallbladder polyps generally do not show any specific symptoms, some patients may experience complaints such as nausea, vomiting, and pain in the right upper abdomen (hypochondrium).
How to treat gallbladder polyps
Treatment of gallbladder polyps will be adjusted according to their size. When polyps are found in the patient's gallbladder, the doctor will ask about the patient's complaints and medical history, as well as perform a complete physical examination. After that, the doctor will perform an ultrasound examination to determine the location and size of the polyp, as well as a CT scan to distinguish cholesterol polyps from adenomas or tumors. adenocarcinoma.
If gallbladder polyps are small and less than 1 cm in diameter, no special treatment is usually needed. However, the doctor will schedule regular ultrasounds to monitor the growth of polyps.
However, if the detected polyp is larger than 1 cm in diameter, the doctor will suggest surgical removal of the gallbladder, also known as a cholecystectomy.
The following natural ways are also believed to help prevent and treat gallbladder polyps:
- Avoid consumption of fried, fatty, and high-cholesterol foods.
- Avoid consumption of carbonated drinks,
- Increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, ginger, and turmeric.
In addition, consuming apple juice or olive oil on an empty stomach is also believed to treat gallbladder polyps. However, there are no studies confirming its effectiveness.
Although gallbladder polyps are rare and are generally found incidentally, you need to be aware of this condition. If you have any of the risk factors above, you should see a doctor so that it can be done screening and treated if necessary.
