Gallstone disease refers to the formation of stones in the gallbladder or bile ducts, which is a common and frequently occurring surgical condition, categorized in Traditional Chinese Medicine as "hypochondriac pain," "jaundice," "gallbladder pain," and "gallbladder distension," among others. Etiology: The liver fails to maintain smooth flow, and the gallbladder loses its ability to drain and descend smoothly. Pathogenesis: The excretion of bile is obstructed, and when it accumulates over time, it turns into heat. The heat accumulates, and the bile is simmered, leading to the formation of sand and stones. Location of the disease: Mainly in the liver and gallbladder, with associations to the spleen, stomach, and kidneys.
Stagnation of Liver and Gallbladder Qi Type: There is distending or colicky pain in the right hypochondriac region and under the xiphoid process, which varies with emotional fluctuations. Frequent belching, bitter taste in the mouth, chest tightness, and poor appetite. The tongue coating is thin and white, and the pulse is taut.
Gallbladder Damp-Heat Type: There is stabbing pain in the hypochondriac and rib areas that is persistent and intensifying. Symptoms include chills and fever, bitter taste in the mouth, irritability, aversion to greasy foods, nausea, vomiting, or yellowing of the eyes and body, dark yellow urine, and constipation. The tongue is red with a yellow, greasy coating, and the pulse is slippery and rapid.
Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency Type: There is a dull pain in the hypochondriac and rib areas that is unceasing and worsens with exertion. Symptoms include dry mouth and throat, dizziness and blurred vision, and a general feeling of fatigue and lack of energy. The tongue is red with little coating, and the pulse is thin.
It is recommended to perform moxibustion once a day, targeting 2 to 3 acupoints each time, with each acupoint being treated for 30 to 40 minutes. Rotate the points treated, with a 10-day period constituting one course of treatment, and then rest for 2 to 3 days before continuing with the next course. (If time permits and there is a need, more acupoints can be treated with moxibustion. The specific duration should be adjusted according to one's own physical needs.)
During the conditioning period for this condition, avoid eating raw, cold, and greasy foods, and pay attention to rest. At the same time, if necessary, it is possible to combine the treatment with both Chinese and Western medicine.