Gallstones are characterized by the Mayo Clinic as hardened deposits of digestive fluids that form in the gallbladder. They're predominantly made up of cholesterol, but can also contain bilirubin, which is a substance found in bile. While gallstones aren't common in children, they can still develop, but usually as a result of an underlying condition. When gallstones do form, children often experience similar symptoms as adults.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of gallstones in children is pain. This pain is typically isolated to the right side of the upper abdomen, but may also manifest toward the middle of the upper abdomen or along the back and radiate up to the shoulder blades, according to the Children's Hospital Boston. Cramping, nausea, vomiting and fever may accompany the pain as well. Any one of these sensations ordinarily develops soon after eating, especially when foods are greasy or high in fat.
Development
Obesity often increases your child's risk of developing gallstones, explains the Seattle Children's Hospital. The University of Maryland Medical Center also includes sickle cell anemia, genetics, spinal injuries, intravenous nutrition, immune disorders and abdominal surgeries as other potential causes for gallstones. Certain medications and spherocytosis can lead to this condition as well.
Diagnosis
Ultrasound is by far the standard form of diagnosis for gallstones in children, advises the Seattle Children's Hospital. The sound waves give the health care provider an image of the organ, which may then reveal the hardened deposits of cholesterol. Your doctor may also use other imaging techniques, such as x-rays or MRIs, to reveal the condition.
Treatment
Treatment usually depends on the severity of your child's symptoms. It's quite possible for your child to experience no discomfort while dealing with gallstones. In this situation, your doctor may recommend leaving the organ intact. Otherwise, treatment involves a surgical procedure to manually remove the gallbladder. Your child can live a normal and productive life without this organ, so there's no cause for alarm.
Prevention
Putting in place certain measures can sometimes help prevent the development of gallstones in children. Maintaining a healthy weight while eating a well-balanced diet is often recommended. If weight loss is necessary, make sure your child loses weight at a gradual pace. Talk to your doctor to determine exactly how much weight your child should lose over the course of a week.
