What are the first signs of gallstones?

Gallstones are hardened deposits in the gallbladder. They may remain silent, but a stone can briefly block bile flow and cause an episode of steady pain beneath the right ribs or in the upper middle abdomen. The pain may spread toward the back or right shoulder and can last for hours. Read more about [Abdominal Pain](/symptoms/abdominal-pain/), [Indigestion](/symptoms/indigestion/), [Nausea](/symptoms/nausea/), and [Vomiting](/symptoms/vomiting/).

Persistent blockage can inflame the gallbladder or affect the pancreas. Gallstones can therefore be associated with [Pancreatitis](/conditions/pancreatitis/), but abdominal pain has many possible causes.

Note where the pain is, when it began, what you had eaten, and whether nausea, vomiting, fever, or yellowing of the skin followed. Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) for repeated attacks or unexplained upper abdominal pain. Assessment may include an examination and tests chosen for your symptoms.

Until assessed, choose lighter meals if rich foods seem to trigger attacks, and do not rely on repeated self-treatment to manage severe or returning pain.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or persistent abdominal pain, fever or chills, repeated vomiting, faintness, or yellow skin or eyes. [Jaundice](/symptoms/jaundice/) with abdominal pain can indicate impaired bile flow and should be assessed promptly.

Could this pain come from the gallbladder, stomach, or pancreas? Do I need imaging or blood tests? What symptoms should send me to urgent care, and what meals or medicines should I avoid while waiting?