When to worry about vomiting with gallstones

A gallstone can obstruct the normal flow of bile and trigger pain in the upper right or upper middle abdomen, often after a meal. Nausea and vomiting may occur during an attack. Pain that becomes persistent, spreads to the back or shoulder, or returns repeatedly deserves medical review.

Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, fever, chills, or increasing tenderness can point to blockage or inflammation. These signs should not be watched at home because complications can progress and may need hospital treatment.

Stop eating for a short period if food worsens the nausea, but continue small sips of water if you can keep them down. Avoid driving while unwell. Keep a note of the pain location, its timing, meals that preceded it, vomiting, fever, and any change in urine or skin colour. Do not take unfamiliar remedies without checking whether they are safe for you.

Seek urgent care for severe or persistent abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fever or chills, yellow skin or eyes, faintness, confusion, very little urine, or inability to keep fluids down. Emergency help is especially important when pain is accompanied by collapse, breathing difficulty, or a rapidly worsening condition.

Could my symptoms indicate an obstructed bile duct or inflamed gallbladder? Do I need blood tests or imaging? What foods and medicines should I avoid during an attack? What symptoms should send me directly to emergency care?