Gallstones: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and When Surgery May Be Needed

What Are Gallstones?

Gallstones are small, hard pieces that form inside the gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small organ under your liver. It stores bile, which helps your body digest fat. In the United States, millions of people get gallstones each year, according to the CDC. Sometimes, gallstones do not cause any problems. However, they can block the flow of bile and cause pain or other symptoms.

There are two main types of gallstones:

Cholesterol stones, which are the most common type

Pigment stones, which are made from bilirubin

Because gallstones can vary in size, they may go unnoticed or cause sudden pain.

Common Symptoms of Gallstones

Many people with gallstones do not have symptoms. Yet, when symptoms appear, they can be very uncomfortable. For example, a gallstone may block a bile duct. This can cause pain and other issues. Common gallstones symptoms include:

Sudden pain in the upper right side of the belly

Pain that spreads to the right shoulder or back

Nausea or vomiting

Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

Fever or chills

Sometimes, the pain starts after eating a fatty meal. If you notice these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor.

How Gallstones Are Diagnosed

Doctors use several methods for gallstones diagnosis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may do a physical exam. Often, doctors use imaging tests to see the gallbladder. These tests include:

Ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create pictures of your organs

CT scan, which gives detailed images of the belly

Blood tests, which can show signs of infection or blocked bile ducts

Because these tests are quick and safe, they help doctors find gallstones and plan treatment.

Treatment Options for Gallstones

Not everyone with gallstones needs treatment. If you do not have symptoms, your doctor may suggest watchful waiting. However, if you have pain or other problems, treatment may be needed. Common gallstones treatment options include:

Medications to dissolve small cholesterol stones (rarely used in the United States)

Procedures to remove or break up stones, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

Surgery to remove the gallbladder, called cholecystectomy

Because each case is different, your doctor will help you choose the best treatment for you.

When Is Surgery Needed for Gallstones?

Surgery is the most common treatment for gallstones with symptoms. When is gallbladder surgery needed? Doctors may recommend surgery if:

You have repeated pain or gallbladder attacks

Gallstones cause infection or swelling in the gallbladder

You develop jaundice or pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)

Other treatments do not work

Usually, doctors remove the gallbladder using a small camera and tools through tiny cuts. This is called laparoscopic surgery. Most people recover quickly and can live a normal life without a gallbladder.

Preventing Gallstones and Lifestyle Tips

While you cannot always prevent gallstones, some healthy habits may lower your risk. For example, keeping a healthy weight can help. Here are some tips for preventing gallstones:

Eat regular meals and avoid skipping them

Choose foods low in fat and high in fiber

Stay active and exercise often

Lose weight slowly if needed, as rapid weight loss can increase risk

Drink plenty of water each day

Because family history and age can also play a role, talk to your doctor about your risk. Following these steps may help you avoid gallstones and keep your digestive system healthy.

Conclusion

If you have symptoms of gallstones or want to learn more about your treatment options, our team at ADITYA HOSPITALS – MEDCHAL is here to help. Schedule a consultation today for expert care and guidance.