Cholelithiasis in Tagalog: understanding gallstones

In Tagalog, gallstones are commonly called bato sa apdo, while the gallbladder is apdo. The stones can remain quiet, or they can block the flow of bile and cause pain in the upper right or upper middle abdomen. Some people also experience Indigestion, Nausea or Vomiting. Symptoms may come in episodes and can be confused with other digestive problems, so the location, timing and duration of pain matter. A scan can show stones, but a clinician must decide whether they explain your symptoms.

Bring the scan report and a list of medicines to a GP Consultation. Describe symptoms in the language that feels clearest to you and ask for an interpreter if needed. Note foods or activities that precede pain, but do not use an extreme diet to treat the problem. A clinician may suggest observation, symptom relief, blood tests, ultrasound or referral to a surgeon. If a stone has moved into a bile duct, additional treatment may be discussed.

Seek urgent care for strong or continuing Abdominal Pain, fever, shaking chills, yellow eyes or skin, very dark urine, pale stools, repeated Vomiting or faintness. These can point to infection or blocked bile flow. Severe pain spreading toward the back may occur with Pancreatitis and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask what cholelithiasis means in your report, whether the bile duct is clear, which pain medicines are appropriate, whether you need a surgeon, and what exact changes should send you to emergency care.