Gallbladder cholelithiasis: what to know

Gallstones are solid material that forms in the gallbladder. A stone can remain there without causing trouble, or briefly block a duct and produce steady pain in the upper right or upper middle abdomen. Indigestion, nausea, or vomiting may accompany an attack, but these symptoms also have other causes. Pain that becomes persistent can indicate inflammation or another complication.

A stone moving into the bile duct or near the pancreas can cause jaundice or pancreatitis. Obesity can be associated with gallstone formation, but symptoms cannot be explained by body size alone.

Record when pain begins, how long it lasts, where it is felt, and whether meals bring it on. A GP Consultation can help decide whether you need blood tests or an ultrasound. Treatment depends on symptoms and findings; symptom-free stones may be monitored, while repeated or complicated attacks may lead to a discussion about gallbladder surgery.

Seek urgent care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, faintness, or pain with marked weakness. These features may indicate infection, blocked bile flow, or pancreatitis.

Ask whether your symptoms match Gallstones, which tests are needed, whether you should change meals temporarily, and what would make surgery or urgent review necessary.