Gallstones affect a large proportion of adults, yet many people are unclear about what the gallbladder does, why stones form, and when they need treatment.
In this episode, Catriona Williams speaks with Consultant Hepatopancreatobiliary and Liver Transplant Surgeon Mr Nikolaos Chatzizacharias about gallbladder health. He explains the role of the gallbladder in digestion, how gallstones develop, and why symptoms often appear after eating, particularly fatty meals.
They also discuss the increasing use of GLP-1 weight-loss medications such as Mounjaro, and how both rapid weight loss and reduced gallbladder contraction may increase the risk of gallstones in some individuals.
The episode covers common symptoms, how gallstones are diagnosed, potential complications including infection and pancreatitis, and when gallbladder removal is advised. Mr Chatzizacharias also explains recovery after surgery and what life is like without a gallbladder.
This content is for information only.
• What the gallbladder does and why we need it
• How and why gallstones form
• Typical symptoms and warning signs
• GLP-1 medications and gallstone risk
• When gallstones become serious
• Treatment options and recovery after surgery
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