Overview
Gallstones are hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ that stores bile for digestion. They range from tiny grains to larger stones and are very common, often causing no symptoms at all. Problems arise when a stone blocks a bile duct, triggering pain or inflammation. Complications can include gallbladder infection, blocked bile flow, and pancreatitis.
Symptoms
- Sudden intense pain in the upper right or central abdomen (biliary colic)
- Pain that can spread to the right shoulder or between the shoulder blades
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pain often triggered by fatty meals
- Bloating and indigestion
- Yellowing of skin or eyes if a duct is blocked
Causes & risk factors
- Too much cholesterol or bilirubin in bile
- Incomplete or infrequent gallbladder emptying
- Being female, pregnancy, or hormonal factors
- Older age
- Overweight or rapid weight loss
- Family history
- Certain conditions affecting blood or the liver
Treatment & self-care
Silent gallstones causing no symptoms often need no treatment, just monitoring. When stones cause pain or complications, treatment commonly involves keyhole surgery to remove the gallbladder, which is the standard approach, with other procedures to clear stones from the ducts when needed. A clinician will assess with imaging such as ultrasound and decide the right approach; do not attempt to self-manage suspected gallstone attacks.
See a doctor urgently if
- You have abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours
- You develop yellowing of the skin or eyes
- You have a high fever with chills and abdominal pain
- Seek emergency care for severe upper abdominal pain with fever, jaundice, or persistent vomiting (possible duct blockage, infection, or pancreatitis)
This condition can be an emergency. If any of the signs above are severe or getting worse, go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number — do not wait for an online consultation.