What should you know about untreated gallstones?

Gallstones are solid deposits in the gallbladder. A stone can stay in place without symptoms, or move into a bile duct and interfere with drainage. This may cause pain in the upper abdomen, often after eating, with indigestion, nausea or vomiting. Persistent blockage can inflame the gallbladder or the pancreas, and bile-flow problems may cause jaundice. The pattern, duration and severity of symptoms matter more than the scan finding alone; a clinician may need to assess whether the stones are causing the problem.

Arrange a GP consultation if you have repeated upper-abdominal discomfort, nausea after meals or symptoms that are becoming more frequent. A clinician may examine you and arrange blood tests or imaging, then discuss observation, symptom control or gallbladder surgery when appropriate. Until assessed, note what triggers symptoms and avoid foods that reliably worsen them. Do not use leftover antibiotics or delay care because an earlier episode settled. Weight changes should be gradual and medically guided, especially if obesity or a restrictive diet is part of the picture.

Seek urgent medical care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fever or chills, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, fainting, or marked tenderness. These signs can occur when a stone blocks drainage or inflammation is developing. Go to an emergency department if pain is intense, you cannot keep fluids down, or you feel seriously unwell. Do not drive yourself if you are faint, confused or in severe pain.

Ask: Are my symptoms consistent with gallstones or another abdominal condition? Do I need an ultrasound or blood tests? What symptoms should send me to emergency care? Should I change my diet while waiting? If treatment is advised, what are the alternatives and expected recovery needs?