Side effects of gallstones: symptoms and when to seek care

Many gallstones cause no symptoms. When a stone obstructs the flow of bile, pain may develop in the upper right or central abdomen and may spread towards the back or shoulder. Nausea, vomiting, bloating or indigestion can accompany an attack. Persistent blockage can inflame the gallbladder, obstruct the bile duct or irritate the pancreas; pancreatitis is a serious example. Gallstones are more common with some risk factors, including obesity, but abdominal symptoms have many possible causes.

Arrange a GP Consultation if pain returns, digestion changes persist, or you have repeated nausea after meals. A clinician may examine your abdomen and decide whether blood tests or an ultrasound is appropriate. Keep a note of when pain starts, how long it lasts, where it is felt, and whether food triggers it. Avoid taking leftover medicines or delaying review if symptoms are becoming more frequent.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fever, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, faintness, or marked tenderness. These features can indicate infection, a blocked bile duct or pancreatitis and need prompt assessment. Call emergency services if pain is overwhelming, you become confused, or you cannot keep fluids down.

Ask whether your symptoms fit Gallstones, whether imaging is needed, how to recognise a blocked duct, and which treatment options suit your symptoms and general health.