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    Gallstones are caused by an alteration in the chemical composition of bile. Bile is a digestive fluid that helps the body absorb fat. Gallstones tend to run in families. In addition, high levels of estrogen, insulin, or cholesterol can increase a person's risk of developing them.

    Pregnancy or the use of birth control pills can slow down gallbladder activity and increase the risk of gallstones. So can diabetes, pancreatitis, and celiac disease. Other factors influencing gallstone formation are:

    • infection
    • obesity
    • intestinal disorders
    • coronary artery disease or other recent illness
    • multiple pregnancies
    • a high-fat, low-fiber diet
    • smoking
    • heavy drinking
    • rapid weight loss

    Gallbladder attacks usually follow a meal of rich, high-fat foods. The attacks often occur in the middle of the night, sometimes waking the patient with intense pain that ends in a visit to the emergency room. The pain of a gallbladder attack begins in the abdomen and may radiate to the chest, back, or the area between the shoulders. Other symptoms of gallstones include:

    • inability to digest fatty foods
    • low-grade fever
    • chills and sweating
    • nausea and vomiting
    • indigestion
    • gas
    • belching.
    • clay-colored bowel movements

    Source: The Gale Group. Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine, 3rd ed.";

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