What should you know about real gallstones?

The gallbladder stores bile, a fluid that helps digest fat. Gallstones can remain silent, or a stone can block a duct and trigger pain, often in the upper right or upper middle abdomen. The pain may spread toward the back or right shoulder and may follow a rich or fatty meal. Nausea and vomiting can accompany an attack. Ongoing blockage can inflame the gallbladder or pancreas; pancreatitis is a serious complication. Risk is influenced by several factors, including body weight and changes in bile composition, but symptoms alone cannot confirm stones.

Arrange a GP consultation for repeated or unexplained upper abdominal pain, especially if it follows meals. Keep a record of timing, food triggers, duration, fever, stool or urine colour changes, and vomiting. Until assessed, choose smaller meals and avoid foods that clearly trigger symptoms rather than attempting rapid weight loss. A clinician may examine your abdomen, order blood tests, and arrange imaging. An abdominal ultrasound is commonly used to look for stones and signs of inflammation.

Seek urgent care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, fainting, confusion, or pain with breathing. These features can indicate infection, blocked bile flow, or pancreatitis and should not be managed at home.

Could my symptoms be caused by gallstones or another abdominal condition? Do I need an ultrasound or blood tests? What foods should I avoid temporarily? What would make surgery or another treatment appropriate?