What to expect from an abdominal ultrasound for gallstones

You lie on an examination couch while the sonographer moves the probe over the skin. You may be asked to turn, take a breath, or hold it briefly so the gallbladder and nearby structures can be viewed from different angles.

Ultrasound can identify many gallstones and may show gallbladder-wall swelling, fluid nearby, or widening of bile ducts. A clear scan does not explain every cause of upper abdominal pain, and some findings need correlation with examination and blood tests.

A stone found on the scan does not automatically explain every symptom. Your clinician considers where the pain is, when it occurs, nausea or vomiting, fever, and changes in liver or pancreatic tests.

Follow the centre's instructions about not eating before the scan; an emptier stomach can make the gallbladder easier to assess. Ask in advance how to take regular medicines and whether water is permitted.

After the examination, discuss the report and a plan for symptoms. Depending on the findings, care may involve observation, dietary advice, medication for symptoms, further testing, or a surgical opinion.

Get urgent medical assessment for severe or persistent pain under the ribs, fever with abdominal pain, yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, repeated vomiting, fainting, or marked weakness. These symptoms can indicate a complication that should not wait for a routine scan review.

Ask whether the scan shows stones, inflammation, or bile-duct changes; what symptoms should trigger urgent help; and whether you need blood tests, further imaging, or a surgical referral.