Green gallstones: what to know

Gallstones are hardened material formed from substances in bile, and their appearance can vary. “Green” may refer to bile staining, a description from imaging or surgery, or a mistaken description of green vomit or stool; it is not enough to determine severity. Gallstones may cause upper-right or central abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or indigestion when they affect bile flow. Learn more about [Gallstones](/conditions/gallstones/), [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/), and [Indigestion](/symptoms/indigestion/).

Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if recurring discomfort follows meals or you have unexplained nausea. Keep a record of pain location, duration, food triggers, vomiting, fever, and any yellowing of the eyes or skin. Eat regular meals that you tolerate and avoid foods that repeatedly trigger pain; do not start a restrictive diet without advice. A clinician may use an examination and imaging to check the gallbladder and bile ducts.

Seek urgent care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever or chills, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, repeated vomiting, faintness, or confusion. These signs can indicate blocked bile flow, infection, or inflammation of the pancreas. Gallstones can sometimes contribute to [Pancreatitis](/conditions/pancreatitis/), which needs prompt medical assessment. Do not wait for the pain to pass if it is intense or accompanied by jaundice.

Ask: What does the reported colour refer to? Are my symptoms consistent with gallstones? Do I need imaging or blood tests? What should I do if pain returns, and which symptoms require emergency care?