What do gallstones look like?

Gallstones are hard, pebble-like deposits that can be yellow, brown or dark, but their appearance cannot diagnose them at home. They may be small or larger, and a person may have one stone or many. Most are discovered through an ultrasound or another clinical test rather than being seen after passing a bowel movement.

Stones develop from material in bile inside the gallbladder. Their colour and texture depend on what they contain, so a pale fragment, dark speck or gritty material in the toilet is not proof of a gallstone. Some stones stay in place and cause no symptoms. Others irritate the gallbladder or obstruct bile flow, producing upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting or jaundice.

If you have repeated upper abdominal attacks or digestive symptoms, book a GP consultation. Bring a description or photograph only if it is easy and hygienic to do so; do not delay care while trying to collect material. The clinician may review your history, examine you, order blood tests and arrange an ultrasound to look for stones and signs of inflammation.

Get urgent medical help for severe or ongoing abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, yellow eyes or skin, dark urine, pale stools, fainting or confusion. These symptoms can indicate a complication such as infection, duct blockage or pancreatitis, regardless of what any material appears to look like.

Ask which scan is suitable, whether your symptoms suggest a complication, and whether an incidental stone needs monitoring or treatment. Also ask what eating pattern and pain plan are appropriate while you await assessment.