Gallstones
حصى المرارة
Hardened deposits that form in the gallbladder, sometimes causing sudden pain in the upper right abdomen, nausea, or vomiting, though many gallstones cause no symptoms at all. Risk increases with obesity and, notably, during rapid weight loss — including after bariatric surgery — which is why some patients are prescribed preventive medication or monitored closely in the months after surgery.
This information is for general awareness only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.
Quick answer
Gallstones are hard deposits that form in the gallbladder, a small organ under the liver that stores bile. They are usually made of cholesterol or bilirubin and can range from a grain of sand to a golf ball.
Many people never have symptoms. When a stone blocks a bile duct it can cause sudden, severe pain in the upper right abdomen (biliary colic), often after a meal, with nausea or vomiting.
Diagnosis is usually by ultrasound. If stones cause symptoms, the standard treatment is surgical removal of the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). Fever, jaundice or persistent severe pain need urgent assessment.
Symptoms
Often no symptoms
Stones found by chance often need no treatment.
Sudden pain in the upper right or central upper abdomen
May last from 30 minutes to several hours, often after a fatty meal.
Pain spreading to the back or right shoulder blade
Nausea and vomiting
Bloating and indigestion
Symptoms are less specific than typical gallbladder pain.
Fever and chills
If the gallbladder or bile ducts become infected.
Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
If a stone blocks the bile duct.
Symptom guides
Causes and risk factors
Causes
- Too much cholesterol in bile
- Too much bilirubin — For example in some blood disorders.
- Gallbladder not emptying completely — Concentrated bile can form stones.
Risk factors
- Being female, pregnancy and hormone therapy
- Overweight or obesity
- Rapid weight loss or repeated crash dieting — Including after bariatric surgery.
- Age over 40
- Family history of gallstones
- Diabetes
- High-fat, low-fibre diet
How is it diagnosed?
Gallstones are usually found with an ultrasound scan of the abdomen.
History and examination
Pattern of pain, relation to meals and tenderness in the upper right abdomen.
Abdominal ultrasound
The main test to show stones and gallbladder inflammation.
Blood tests
Liver tests, blood count and inflammation markers to look for infection or bile duct blockage.
MRCP, CT or endoscopic tests
Used if a stone in the bile duct or complications are suspected.
Related tests
Treatment
Stones that cause no symptoms usually need no treatment. When they cause symptoms or complications, treatment is planned with a surgeon or gastroenterologist.
Watchful waiting
For silent stones found incidentally.
Laparoscopic gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy)
The standard treatment for symptomatic stones; you can live normally without a gallbladder.
Treating bile-duct stones
Endoscopic procedures (ERCP) can remove stones from the bile duct.
Pain relief and antibiotics
For attacks and infections, under medical supervision.
Medicines to dissolve stones are used only in selected cases and work slowly; your specialist will advise.
When should you see a doctor?
Arrange a medical assessment if
- Repeated episodes of pain in the upper abdomen after meals
- Persistent nausea or indigestion with fatty foods
- Gallstones found on a scan and you have symptoms
- You are planning or have had rapid weight loss or bariatric surgery
Seek urgent care if
- Severe abdominal pain lasting more than a few hours
- Fever or chills with abdominal pain
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine or pale stools
- Persistent vomiting, or severe pain radiating to the back (possible pancreatitis)
Prevention
Maintain a healthy weight
And lose weight gradually rather than rapidly.
Eat a balanced, high-fibre diet
With plenty of vegetables, fruit and whole grains, and less saturated fat.
Stay physically active
Don't skip meals or crash-diet
Frequently asked questions
What are gallstones?
Hard deposits that form in the gallbladder from cholesterol or bilirubin.
Do gallstones always cause symptoms?
No. Many people have gallstones for years without knowing.
What does a gallbladder attack feel like?
Sudden, severe pain in the upper right or middle abdomen, often after a fatty meal, sometimes spreading to the back or shoulder, with nausea.
Do I need surgery?
Usually only if stones cause symptoms or complications. Your doctor will explain the options.
Can I live without a gallbladder?
Yes. Bile still reaches the intestine directly. Some people notice changes in digestion, usually mild.
Can diet dissolve gallstones?
No, but a healthy diet and steady weight may reduce the risk of forming them.
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Medical sources
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