How common is jaundice in gallstones?

Gallstones may move from the gallbladder into a bile duct. If a stone narrows or blocks that passage, bile can build up in the blood and make the whites of the eyes or skin look yellow. Dark urine, pale stools, itching, nausea, or pain beneath the right ribs may occur as well. Jaundice can also have causes unrelated to gallstones, so its presence does not identify the cause by itself.

Arrange medical assessment promptly if you notice yellowing, particularly with upper abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, or dark urine. A clinician may examine your abdomen and order blood tests or an ultrasound to check the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. Do not take leftover antibiotics or use herbal remedies for suspected blockage without advice. Until assessed, note when the colour change began and whether pain, fever, stool changes, or itching are progressing.

Seek urgent care for jaundice with severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever or chills, repeated vomiting, confusion, fainting, or unusual sleepiness. These combinations can signal infection or significant bile-duct obstruction and need rapid treatment. A rapidly worsening yellow colour also deserves same-day medical advice.

Ask whether a bile duct may be blocked, which tests are needed, whether your liver blood tests show inflammation or obstruction, and how quickly you need treatment. Also ask which pain medicines are suitable and what symptoms should send you to emergency care.